What Makes a Toad a Toad?
Unlike frogs, which usually have smooth, slimy skin, toads are characterized by:
- Dry, Warty Skin: Their bumpy texture helps them retain moisture away from water.
- Short Legs: Toads are built for hopping and walking rather than long-distance leaping.
- Parotoid Glands: These specialized glands behind their eyes secrete a bitter toxin to discourage predators.
Where Do They Live?
Toads are incredibly adaptable. You can find them in:
- Gardens & Backyards: They are a gardener's best friend, eating thousands of insects.
- Woodlands: Burrowing into cool, damp soil during the day.
- Grasslands: Hunting for snacks under the cover of night.
Why We Love Toads
Toads are essential environmental indicators. Because they breathe through their skin, their health reflects the health of the local environment. Plus, a single toad can eat up to 10,000 insects in one summer!
Fun Toad Fact
Did you know a group of toads is called a knot?