Friday, April 23, 2010

B. americanus


This American toad (Bufo americanus) was found in a streem at Hueston Woods State Park in Butler County, Ohio on April 23, 2010 at ~15:00. The toad was found on the river bank just sitting on a rock. It was captured, and the warts on its thigh were used to distinguish it from the Fowler's toad (B. woodhousii). The specimin was approx. 4.0 cm snout to vent and 8.0 cm snout to toes. According to Peterson's Field Guide to Reptiles and Amphibians of Easter/Central North America, this toad is just on the lower size of average (given 2-3 in). Based on this data it is hypothesized that the toad was male, as females tend to be larger. This toad's rusty red/brown color made it stand out well against the rocks.

It was not surprizing to find this toad in this location as American toads are widespread throughout the eastern and midwestern United States. They prefer habitats where there are hiding spots avaliable, temporary or permenant water, and plenty of instects for food. This location met all of those qualifications.
Posted by Tyler Eaton. Photo by Tammy McPeek.

No comments: