Toad

From Conservapedia - Reading time: 1 min

---

Toads are a number of kinds of amphibians, found worldwide, even as far North as the Arctic Circle.

While the distinction between toads and frogs is to some extent an arbitrary one, a toad will typically move in an ambulatory fashion (i.e. by walking) whereas a frog will hop. Toads are also generally more terrestrial in their habits.

Most toads are predatory upon invertebrates and other small animals.

The main defence of toads is unpleasant-tasting or poisonous skin-secretions, though some will also inflate themselves to avoid being readily swallowed. The North American toad Bufo alvarius is actively sought by 'toad-lickers'^[1] for its powerfully psychoactive secretions.

In parts of Australasia, the introduced cane toad, lacking any natural predators, has become a serious pest.

References[edit]