Southern Toad

What it is

The southern toad (Bufo terrestris or Anaxyrus terrestris) is a true toad native to the southeastern United States, from eastern Louisiana and southeastern Virginia south to Florida. It often lives in areas with sandy soils. It is nocturnal and spends the day in a burrow. Its coloring is usually brown but can be red, gray, or black. It is approximately 8 cm (3 inches) long.

Where and when to find it

Habitat

Common in the southeastern United States, in gardens, forests, and near ponds.

How to find it

Listen for their trilling calls near water at night. Look for them under porch lights or wet leaves.

Best time of day

Nighttime, especially after rain; spring and summer breeding.

How it lives

What it eats

Insects, slugs, worms, and other small invertebrates.

What eats it

Snakes, raccoons, birds, larger frogs.

Worth knowing

• Southern Toads have glands on their skin that release a milky substance to deter predators.
• They often bury themselves in the soil to stay cool and moist.
• Their trilling call can last for a long time, sometimes up to 30 seconds.
• Toads absorb water through their skin, they don't need to drink with their mouths.
• They have short legs for hopping, not for long jumps like frogs.
• A group of toads is sometimes called a 'knot' or a 'colony'.

Why it matters

Toads help keep insect pests in check. They are also food for larger animals, linking different parts of the food web.