Amphibian
Couch's Spadefoot
Scaphiopus couchiiAlso known as Couch's Spadefoot Toad
Couch's Spadefoots are round-bodied amphibians with smooth skin, vertical pupils, and a dark digging spur on each hind foot. They remain underground through dry periods and emerge rapidly after heavy rain to breed in temporary pools.
spadefootburrowerrain breeder
—observations
—countries
—peak records
Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Diet & preyTermites, ants, beetles
Predators
- snakes
- owls
- raccoons
ThreatsLoss of temporary pools, road mortality, pesticides, drought, and soil compaction
HabitatsDesert grassland, scrub, sandy flats, temporary pools, and loose soil suitable for burrowing
Life spanOften several years, with adults spending most of each year underground
Classification
- FamilyScaphiopodidae
- SpeciesScaphiopus couchii
Range data is not available yet.
Interaction riskLow
- Low
- Moderate
- High
- Very high
- Why interaction risk is low
- Avoid handling and let rain-emergent animals cross roads or open ground without pursuit.
- What to notice
- Confirm smooth yellow-green skin with dark blotches, vertical pupils, and a black digging spade on each hind foot.
- Support conservation
- Observe from a gentle distance, avoid harsh spotlights, drive slowly on wet roads, and never enter breeding pools.
Responsible observation
- Listen: A loud nasal call may erupt from temporary water soon after heavy rain.
- Identify: Check vertical pupils and a single dark spade on each hind foot.
Help improve the field guideSomething wrong?
Checking your Fauna account…Report a name, category, or profile issue for review.