Eastern Narrow-mouthed Toad

Eastern Narrow-mouthed Toad

Gastrophryne carolinensis

Least Concern

Quick Facts

Kingdom: Animalia
Abundance: Common
Habitat: Forest, Wetland
Activity: Nocturnal (Active at night)

A small, burrowing toad-like amphibian with a distinct call. They are distinguished from true toads by their moist, smooth skin, their lack of eardrums, their distinguishable squat body shape, and the unique fold of skin on the back of their head before their eyes. It has an oval-shaped body and a narrow head with a pointed snout. They vary in color from brown and grey to green, often with black and white spotting. Usually there will be a dark brown stripe seen on both sides of the body.

Diet

Diet consists mostly of insects like beetles, termites, and especially ants. This toad has been found feeding right at the openings to anthills.

Activity Pattern

Nocturnal (Active at night)
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Amphibia
Order: Anura
Family: Microhylidae
Genus: Gastrophryne
Species: Gastrophryne carolinensis

Scientific Name

Gastrophryne carolinensis
Breeding Season
March-September

Behavior

These toads are mainly nocturnal, and generally remain under ground or hidden in debris during the day. This particular toad species avoids predators by burrowing, seeking cover, and/or nocturnal activity patterns. Chemically, they are also capable of producing mucus that produces a violent burning sensation and irritates membranes.

Activity Pattern

Nocturnal (Active at night)

Habitat Types

Forest
Wetland

Geographic Distribution

Can be found throughout the entire southeastern portion of North America and the Florida Keys. Their range extends into eastern Texas and Oklahoma. They have also been introduced to the Bahamas.

Local Abundance

Common

Conservation Status

Least Concern

This species is widespread and abundant. No immediate threat to survival.

How You Can Help

  • Report sightings to contribute to population monitoring
  • Support habitat conservation efforts
  • Follow guidelines when observing wildlife
No field notes or observations available for this species.

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