Plains Spadefoot

Spea bombifrons

In sandy grasslands of the Great Plains, this spadefoot toad, which has the profile of a miniature bulldog, can be quite abundant. Spadefoot toads of all kinds are easily overlooked, as they are often underground. The "spades" on their hind feet act like little shovels and allow them to dig quickly into the loose soil they prefer.

Look For : A spadefoot toad with light gray to brown skin, orange- or yellow-tipped warts on its back, and a bony knob between its eyes; the "spade" on its hind feet is wedge-shaped. Call is a raspy bleat or short trill.

Length : 1 1/2-2 1/2".

Habitat : Dry grasslands.

Range : Alberta to Manitoba and south through Great Plains.