Toadiebeans

The sandhill frog [Arenophryne rotunda] is a plump little burrower native to the western coast of Australia. Unlike most burrowing frogs, who use their hind legs to dig, the sandhill frog buries itself face-first in the sand. These frogs will dig all the way to the moist layer beneath the sand and stay there during the day. At night, they emerge to hunt insects. Images by David Nelson.

This American toad [Anaxyrus americanus] was found climbing a fence in Ohio, presumably trying to escape. Though largely terrestrial, these toads are surprisingly adept climbers when the situation calls for it. Image by Alina Martin.

Interesting technique sir

Hrouumph!!! Hrrugh!!! Hrrrough!! Okay I’m fine now.

Admire the gorgeous golden skin of this American toad [Anaxyrus americanus], caught taking a dip in a river in Reston, Virginia. This toad was spotted by photographer Ed Hass.

A sandy Colorado river toad [Incilius alvarius] patiently waiting for prey in Pima County, Arizona. These toads are very active hunters. They have been observed feeding on insects, invertebrates, beetles, centipedes, scorpions, small mammals, lizards, and even other frogs. Image by Sheldon Schultz.

This pretty little cane toad [Rhinella marina] was spotted in Cusco, Peru, by photographer Rich Hoyer. Cane toads are native to South and Central America. Despite being called “marine toads”, Cane toads prefer freshwater, though studies have shown they are able to tolerate saltwater if necessary. Tadpoles of this species have been found living in salinities of 27.5% in Panama. 

A chubby Gulf coast toad [Incilius nebulifer] perched atop a frog statue in Corpus Christi, Texas. While normally hidden beneath logs and inside holes during the day, these toads gather at bodies of water during the summer breeding season. They reach sexual maturity at around two years old, though the majority of their growth occurs during their first year of life. Image by Michael Orgill. 

Rejoice, for you have been noticed by an American toad [Anaxyrus americanus], a species with a wide range throughout the eastern United States. Males of this species, like the individual pictured, have dark throats, which mark the location of their croak sacs. Image by iNaturalist user Davehh.

A silvery checkerspot butterfly [Chlosyne nycteis] perched atop an American toad [Anaxyrus americanus] in Frederick, Maryland. Butterflies have been observed drinking the tears of other animals; that is perhaps what the specimen here is doing. Image by Andy Wilson.

Happy May, friends 🍄🌿✨

Great Plains Toads are water balloons with eyes

I'm sure you will all be excited to know that a toad has graced the garden with his own little home and delightful presence. He was gently moved for photos and to show my partner and their family, and promptly returned to his home with thanks for his time. I hope that more toads take residence in the garden and help to eat the bugs eating the plants.