American Toad

Description:

Eastern American toads average in size from 5.1 to 11.1 cm (toads of the Great Lakes' islands are known to grow to 15.1 cm). Adult females are often larger than males. Juveniles as small as 3/8 inch (10 mm) can be found on land. The background coloring of American toads is frequently a dull brown, but can range from yellowish to olive brown to dark gray with patches of lighter colors. Toad coloring can vary within the same species from location to location and even an individual toad's coloring can change in response to stress, temperature, and humidity. Eastern American toads have glands all over their backs (often mistaken as warts) that are able to produce a mild poison. When a predator attempts to devour the toad, the skin secretes the poison into the predator's mouth. This causes the predator to drop the toad and in most cases prevents the predator from attacking again.

Habitat:

Common in many habitats including woodlands, fields, agricultural, and urban areas.

Notes:

The poison in the Eastern American toad's back is not toxic to humans. However it can cause a skin irritation. Hands should always be washed after handling toads, and kept away from mouth and eyes.