Colorado River Toad

Scientific Name: Incilius alvarius
Category: Amphibian
Habitat: Sonoran Desert washes, temporary pools
Active: Nocturnal, especially after rain

Overview:
The Colorado River toad is the largest native toad in the United States. It spends much of the year underground, emerging during warm, wet nights to feed and breed.

Adaptations:

• Absorbs water through its skin

• Burrows underground to avoid heat and drought

• Toxic skin secretions deter predators

Ecosystem Role:
Consumes large quantities of insects and serves as prey for desert predators.

DESERT° Notes:
In the desert, life waits patiently — sometimes for months — for the right moment to emerge.