Bufo bufo

Bufo bufo, commonly known as the common toad, is a widespread amphibian found throughout much of Europe. It is a member of the family Bufonidae, or true toads.

Description

The common toad is a robust and fairly large species, with adult males measuring about 8 cm in length and females about 13 cm. Its skin is warty and can vary in color from dark brown, grey, olive green to sandy. The belly is usually pale with dark speckles.

Distribution and habitat

The common toad is found throughout most of Europe, with the exception of Ireland and some Mediterranean islands. It is also found in parts of Asia and North Africa. It inhabits a wide range of habitats, including forests, meadows, gardens, and urban areas. It prefers areas with plenty of cover and access to water bodies for breeding.

Behavior and ecology

The common toad is nocturnal and spends the day hiding under stones or logs or in burrows. It feeds on a variety of invertebrates, including insects, spiders, slugs, and worms. It has a slow, lumbering walk, and when threatened, it can puff up its body to appear larger.

During the breeding season, males call to attract females. The female lays thousands of eggs in long strings in water bodies, which hatch into tadpoles after a few weeks. The tadpoles undergo metamorphosis and emerge as tiny toads.

Conservation

The common toad is classified as Least Concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). However, it faces threats from habitat loss, pollution, road mortality, and diseases such as chytridiomycosis.

In culture

The common toad has a long association with folklore and mythology, often with negative connotations. However, it also plays a beneficial role in controlling pests in gardens and farms.

See also

• Amphibians
• Bufonidae
• Conservation status