Examining Endangered Frog and Toad Species
Examining Endangered Frog and Toad Species
The toad ranges in length from about 1 to 7 in. (2.5–18 cm). Although there is no clear-cut distinction between toads and frogs, the name toad commonly refers to those species that have relatively short legs, stout bodies, and thick skins, and are less aquatic as adults than the long-legged, slender-bodied frogs. They generally live in cool, moist places and absorb moisture through the skin. The white fluid that they send out through the skin is very poisonous and causes intense burning if it comes in contact with the eyes or mouth. However, contrary to an old belief, it does not cause warts. Toads, like frogs, move on land by jumping and feed on insects and grubs. Also like frogs, they usually lay their eggs in water in strands of jelly.
Frogs are found all over the world, except in Antarctica. They require moisture and usually live in quiet freshwater or in the woods. Some frogs are highly aquatic, while others are better adapted to woodland habitats. Frogs lack tails in their adult stage of their life. They have short, neck less body; long, muscular hind legs specialized for jumping; and webbed feet for swimming. The skin is smooth, usually some shade of green or brown, and often spotted. Frogs have no outer ears. They have bulging eyes with special membranes to keep the eye moist. Adult frogs have lungs, but their breathing mechanism is poorly developed. At rest they breathe mainly through the mouth lining, filling the lungs only occasionally. Frogs have true voice boxes and are noted for their various sounds. Frogs capture insects and worms with their sticky, forked tongue, attached at the front of the lower jaw. Some large tropical species eat small mammals and snakes. A few frogs have skin glands that can produce irritating or poisonous fluid.