Family: Bufonidae, Toads view all from this family Description
Oval parotoid glands. Olive to greenish-yellow. Females have
dark blotches. Dimensions 4.5-7.7cm. (1 3/4-3") Warning Toads
have enlarged glands (called the paratoid glands) on the side of
the neck, one behind each eye. These glands secrete a viscous
white poison that gets smeared in the mouth of any would-be
predator, inflaming the mouth and throat and causing nausea,
irregular heart beat, and, in extreme cases, death. Toads pose a
danger to pets, which may pounce on and bite them. Humans should
take care to wash their hands after handling a toad, and to
avoid touching the mouth or eyes until having done so. Voice
Musical trill, frequent intervals. Breeding May-July. Eggs laid
in shallow water. Habitat Damp meadows on elevation of
6,400-11,000'. Range Yosemite National Park, California.
Discussion Only found with others during breeding. Burrows
underground to escape cold.