Toad (also known as a hoptoad) is a common name for certain frogs, especially of the family Bufonidae, that are characterized by dry, leathery skin, short legs, and large bumps covering the parotoid glands.

The common toad, European toad, or in Anglophone parts of Europe, simply the toad (Bufo bufo, from Latin bufo "toad"), is a toad found throughout most of Europe (with the exception of Ireland, Iceland, parts of Scandinavia, and some Mediterranean islands), in the western part of North Asia, and in a small portion of Northwest Africa.

A true toad is any member of the family Bufonidae, in the order Anura (frogs and toads). This is the only family of anurans in which all members are known as toads , although some may be called frogs (such as harlequin frogs ).

In this article we’ll look at 20 of the toad species you can find in North America. A “true toad” is a member of the Bufonidae family of amphibians. They have unique characteristics that differentiate them from frogs. Here are five of the main ways in which toads differ from frogs:

Toads are common in the United States. Learn 21 common types of toads you may encounter with pictures for identification.

Jun 17, 2021 · American Toads are carnivorous and mainly eat insects, worms, spiders, and slugs. American Toads have a very recognizable call. Listen for a musical trilling noise that can last for up to 30 seconds. They like to breed in shallow water, and tadpoles have an amazing defense against predators.

Toads are found on every continent, excluding Antarctica. Adult toads generally prefer moist, open habitats like fields and grasslands. The American toad ( Anaxyrus americanus) is a common garden species that eats harmful insects and can be seen in backyards in the Northeast.

Mar 20, 2025 · toad, any squat, rough-skinned, tailless amphibian of the order Anura, and especially a member of the family Bufonidae. The true toads (Bufo), with more than 300 species, are found worldwide except in Australia, Madagascar, polar regions, and Polynesia, though Bufo marinus has been introduced into Australia and some South Pacific islands.