A few years ago, I found this toad in one of our restored prairies along the Platte River. It was late April, and the toad was in mesic prairie, about 10 yards from the edge of a wetland swale. It (she?) had made itself a perfectly-fitting little depression to sit in and was content to sit still while I photographed it.
A Woodhouse's toad in restored prairie.
My assumption is that it was enjoying the warmth of the sun in the recently-burned prairie and was dug in to stay out of the cool breeze (and maybe to keep a low profile to predators). However, knowing the knowledge base that exists among my blog readers, I’m confident that some of you will add to and/or contradict my assumption! …and I’d welcome that.
This particular toad is a Woodhouse’s toad, and is my personal favorite toad species because of it’s call. You can listen to its distinctive “WAAAAAAAAAAAHHH” call here.
Another shot of the same toad, showing more of the context of the prairie around it.
Nice call. It reminded me of a time I was in a crowded restaurant with a bunch of friends, including a herp enthusiast who proceeded to do a full-volume imitation of a narrow-mouthed toad (wine was involved):
http://www.uga.edu/srelherp/anurans/gascar.htm
Where’s the “Like” button? 8>)
My guess is that he is getting moisture from the earth, stabilizing his temp and doing a good job of blending into the environment to protect himself from predators.
I too believe it is to absorb water through the abdominal skin.
Hey Chris
I know a canyon in SW Nebraska where these critters will sing you to sleep and beyond!! If someone would make a hour long recording of them they could sell it to the nature nuts like me that cant sleep at night…..just an idea!
Love the blog. Keep up the good work.
Karen
Chris,
Can your wonderful pictures be reproduced for community outreach? My concern is that your pictures on the blog are copyrighted – I think however community outreach (that is, displayed at a non-profit community Think Green Day) would be “Fair Use” – please advise – and thank you for taking super photos- Dawn
I’m not sure if that fits under fair use or not, but please feel free to check in with me on specific cases and I will consider each one. I’m generally supportive of the use of my photos for true prairie conservation outreach.
Chris
I love the call. It really freaked my cats out.
Hey Chris…I meant to respond earlier but allowed life to get in my way. The behavior the toad is exhibiting is standard toad behavior. Being primarily nocturnal, during the day they bury themselves in soil to prevent themselves from drying out and/or overheating. During early evening or just after a rain, they’ll emerge from their soil pits to either forage or breed.
Thanks Dan.