Southern crested toad facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Southern crested toad |
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The Peltophryne guentheri, also known as the southern crested toad or Gunther's Caribbean toad, is a type of toad. It belongs to the Bufonidae family, which includes true toads. This toad lives only on the island of Hispaniola. You can find it in the lowlands of both Haiti and the Dominican Republic.
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About the Southern Crested Toad
Male southern crested toads can grow up to 74 millimeters (about 2.9 inches) long. Females are larger, reaching up to 101 millimeters (about 4 inches). This measurement is from their snout to their vent (the opening where waste leaves the body).
The toad's back, called the dorsum, is usually yellowish-tan. It has a dark brown to black pattern that looks like a net or maze. This pattern covers most of its back.
Where They Live and How They Behave
Toad Habitats
Peltophryne guentheri lives in dry lowland valleys. These areas can be either mesic (meaning they have a moderate amount of moisture) or xeric (meaning they are very dry).
These toads have been seen sitting on or near piles of cow manure. They use a "sit-and-wait" method to hunt. This means they stay still and wait for insects to come close to the manure, then quickly catch them.
Toad Reproduction and Life Cycle
Southern crested toads breed in temporary pools of water. This includes places like ditches filled with rainwater along roads. Their breeding season starts when heavy rains fall. This usually happens during the Atlantic hurricane season.
Protecting the Southern Crested Toad
Threats to Toads
The southern crested toad is facing several dangers. One big problem is habitat loss. This means they are losing their homes because of things like cows grazing and trees being cut down. Agricultural pollution from farms also harms their environment.
Many of these toads are found in places that are already damaged. These areas are becoming even worse as cities grow. Another threat comes from new animals that have been brought into their habitat. These include cane toads (Rhinella marina) and American bullfrogs (Lithobates catesbeianus). These new species compete with the native toads for food. They might also eat the southern crested toads.
See also
In Spanish: Peltophryne guentheri para niños
