The Reptiles and Amphibians of Utah

*Photos 1-3 by Jeff Martineau

Description: Tan, gray, cream, or olive base color with large symmetrical blotching on the dorsal. The blotches are dark green or brown in color with light edges. Prominent cranial crests that connect toward the snout. Elongated oval-shaped parotoid glands.

Call: A loud long lasting trill often described as jackhammering that can last up to a minute. The vocal sac is elongated and extends forward above the snout.  

Size: A medium-sized toad averaging 3 to 4 inches in length. 

Range and Habitat: This toad occurs through much of the Colorado Plateau. It inhabits streams, ponds, and springs within semidesert grasslands and desertscrub habitat. It can be found below 5,000 feet in elevation. 

Similar Species: The Woodhouse’s Toad has cranial crests that do not connect at the snout.