PA Amphibians and Reptiles
Learning Objective
I can distinguish between common amphibians and reptiles found in Pennsylvania.
Key Concepts
The American toad can be identified by looking for 1 to 2 large warts per spot on its back and enlarged warts on its tibia.
The southern toad often has long, streaky spots with multiple enlarged warts per spot, and may have cranial knobs.
The Fowler’s toad is the smallest of the three, has warts on its tibia that are the same size as those on its thigh, and has a postorbital ridge that sits right on top of the parotoid gland.
Practice Questions
This lesson includes 3 practice questions to reinforce learning.
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1. Describe two key differences between the cranial ridges of the American toad and the Fowler's toad.
2. How can the appearance of the warts on the tibia (calf) be used to differentiate between the American, Southern, and Fowler's toads?
3. Which toad species is most likely to have spots on its belly?
Educational Video
American Toad, Southern Toad & Fowler's Toad, How to Tell Them Apart
Koaw Nature