Fowler's Toad

​Identification:

Fowler’s Toads are very similar to American Toads but are often paler in color and somewhat smaller (never much more than 3 inches long). The ground color is usually pale gray to light brown (rarely brick red), and the dark spots on the back are often paired and some contain 3 or more warts. The cranial crests are low and touch the bulging parotoid glands, and the warts on the tibia are all about the same size as those on the femur.

Fowler’s Toads occur throughout Kentucky but are uncommon across the Bluegrass Region. Adults live in a wide variety of habitats but seem most common in areas with well-drained sandy soils. These toads generally breed later in the year than American Toads, starting in late April or early May and continuing through mid-July. Fowler’s Toads primarily lay their eggs in ponds, flooded fields, and shallow areas of rivers and streams. The call is a deep nasal trill lasting from one to several seconds; it is surprising that such a small toad can make such a big sound.