Common toad  (Bufo bufo)

Learn about the scientific name of this species and how it fits into the tree of life at Nature Navigator.

Description

The common toad is surrounded by a wealth of folklore and superstition (4). It can alter the tone of its skin to suit its surroundings; the upper surface may be brown, greenish or grey, and occasionally features dark markings. Females are often more reddish or brown than males. The underside is typically white or grey, and the eye, which has a horizontal pupil, is copper in colour. The most obvious feature that distinguishes this species from frogs is its warty skin; these dark warts secrete powerful toxins when the toad is harassed (2), and potential predators soon learn to avoid toads (5).

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