Source: ExpertVillage Leaf Group
Distinguishing Features
Measuring 7 inches (18 cm) or more, it is one of the largest species of toad native to North America. Adults have a uniform green to gray-green dorsal surface (upper body) and creamy white vents (underside). Large round white spots, or pustules, � are found in the corner of the jaw, but apart from the large gill glands and a few large lumps on the hind legs, this species has relatively smooth skin. Recently metamorphosed toads will be tan to green with orange or red spots on their backs. Unlike other male toads in our area, Sonoran Desert male toads do not have dark throats; Males develop thick, dark calluses (calluses) on the inner surface of the thumbs of the forelimbs during the breeding season.
Range
Found from Central Arizona to southwestern New Mexico and Sinaloa, Mexico; has historically entered southeastern California, though it hasn’t been seen there since the 1970s.
Habitat
This species of toad is commonly found in the Sonoran Desert. It occurs in a variety of habitats including creosote scrub desert, grasslands up to oak pine forests, thorn bushes, and tropical deciduous forests in Mexico.
Story
Sonoran desert toads eat a variety of insects throughout their lives. Adults mainly feed on beetles, although large individuals will occasionally eat small vertebrates including other toads. The Sonoran Desert Toad is active from late May to September, although mainly during the summer rainy season. They are nocturnal during the hot summer months. The male call was weak, sounding like a ferry whistle. Eggs are laid in temporary and permanent ponds. Larvae metamorphose after 6 to 10 weeks. This species lives at least 10 years, and perhaps 20 years at most.
Comment
The Sonoran Desert Toad has a powerful defensive poison secreted from several glands (mainly paratoits) in the skin. Animals that harass this species often get drunk through their mouth, nose, or eyes. Dog owners should exercise caution: the poison is potent enough to kill adult dogs that have picked up or mouthed toads. Symptoms of drunkenness are excessive salivation, irregular heartbeat and gait, and squeaky mouth. If the dog has any of these symptoms, use a garden hose to rinse his mouth from back to front and consult a veterinarian.
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