Desert Spadefoot Toad
Background
Desert Spadefoot Toad
(Photo: FROGWATCH Resource Materials 1990)
The Desert Spadefoot Toad inhabits the dry north western part of South Australia. Living most of its life underground, this frog has been dug from burrows at depths of more than one metre. The body is an olive-grey to brown with a number of yellow and red warts arranged in rough rows. The belly is pale, the limbs are short and the fingers are not webbed. The toes are slightly webbed. It is difficult to see the tympanum (ear).

Characteristics
Desert Spadefoot Toad distribution
Desert Spadefoot Toad distribution map

Size: Males 48-58 mm; Females 46-65 mm.

Habitat: Can be found above ground after rain, in flooded shrubland.

Breeding: Breeds in temporary ponds and especially desert claypans. Its eggs are deposited in large chains draped amongst submerged vegetation.

Advertisement call: A loud 'whooping' sound.


 
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