Fowler's Toad

What it is

Fowler's toad (Anaxyrus fowleri, formerly Bufo fowleri) is a species of toad in the family Bufonidae. The species is native to North America, where it occurs in much of the eastern United States and parts of adjacent Canada. It was previously considered a subspecies of Woodhouse's toad (Anaxyrus woodhousii, formerly Bufo woodhousii ).

Where and when to find it

Habitat

They live in woods, fields, and suburban areas throughout much of the eastern and central US, preferring sandy soils.

How to find it

Listen for their unique, high-pitched, wailing call that sounds like a crying baby. Look for them in gardens or near ponds and slow streams at night.

Best time of day

Night, especially after rain, from spring to fall.

How it lives

What it eats

Ants, beetles, slugs, grasshoppers, spiders.

What eats it

Snakes, birds, raccoons, skunks, larger toads.

Worth knowing

• They have a white belly, usually with a single dark spot on the chest.
• Fowler's Toads hibernate underground during the cold winter months.
• Their skin has glands that produce a mild toxin that can irritate predators.
• They can change their skin color slightly to blend in better with their surroundings.
• Males have a dark throat during breeding season when they call.
• When threatened, they sometimes play dead to trick predators.

Why it matters

Fowler's Toads eat many garden pests and other insects, helping to keep insect numbers balanced. They are also an important food source for many animals.