Western Toad
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They are wart covered, medium sized amphibians (up to five inches long) that prefer terrestial living during non-breeding season. They range as far north as Alaska and British Columbia, down through the northern Rocky Mountains and the West Coast states.
Skin color varies from olive to brown, depending on habitat. The light stripe down the back is the most distinctive field identification mark.
Habitat destruction commonly ranks as the primary factor accounting for population declines throughout its range. In 2005 the United States Fish and Wildlife Service declined to list the Southern Rocky Mountain population as an endangered species. They are considered a species of concern, and research on their population trends contines.
They tend to walk more than they jump, so if you pass one by during a hike, it might stay in close enough proximity for a picture opportunity.
Finding them is a different situation. They are considered nocturnal in their lower elevation habitats and diurnal in their higher elevation habitats. It takes some effort turning over logs and rocks to find one resting at lower elevations during their active season.
Their diet consists of insects and other invertebrates. They hibernate during the winter.
© 2007 Patricia A. Michaels