Fauna
Amphibian

European Toad

Bufo bufo

Also known as Common Toad

European Toads are sturdy, warty amphibians with copper-colored eyes and prominent glands behind the head. They walk more often than they hop and spend much of the day hidden in cool ground cover.

toadnocturnalwoodland
European Toad reference1 / 7
Tythatguy1312 / CC BY-SA 4.0 · cc-by-sa
—observations
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Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Key facts
Diet & preyBeetles, slugs, earthworms
Predators
  • grass snakes
  • hedgehogs
  • herons
ThreatsRoad mortality, pond loss, pesticides, disease, drought, and drainage
HabitatsWoodland, hedgerows, gardens, grassland, and ponds used for breeding
Life spanOften ten to twelve years, with some wild individuals living considerably longer
Classification
  1. OrderAnura
  2. FamilyBufonidae
  3. GenusBufo
  4. SpeciesBufo bufo
Range & activity
Range data is not available yet.
Safe observation
Interaction riskHigh
  1. Low
  2. Moderate
  3. High
  4. Very high
Why interaction risk is high
Defensive gland secretions can irritate eyes and poison animals that mouth the toad.
Why it is dangerous
Parotoid glands release defensive toxins that can irritate people and seriously affect pets.
How to recognize a risky encounter
Look for copper eyes, dry warty skin, and elongated glands directly behind the head.
What to do
Do not handle or allow pet contact; wash exposed skin and seek veterinary help after mouthing.
Responsible observation
  • Watch: Use a low light briefly and allow nocturnal toads to continue moving.
  • Protect: Keep pets from mouthing toads and avoid blocking seasonal pond crossings.
Related species

Related species have not been added yet.

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