Meet the American Toad
The American Toad (Anaxyrus Americanus) can be found all over Maryland and breeds in any shallow water that can be found. They hatch from eggs in 3-5 days and grow from tadpole to adult toad in approximately 65 days. I myself have a small koi pond and these toads have been breeding in it for 2 years now. Adult American Toads eat many kinds of small insects to include ants, moths, and beetles. As tadpoles they eat algae, dead fish, and other aquatic organic material. They are an important part of the ecosystem as they are a food source for many snakes, birds, and small mammals. In the wild this toad lives 1-2 years. To learn more about the American Toad visit: www.chesapeakebay.net/discover/field-guide/entry/eastern-american-toad
This edition of Wildlife Wednesday was provided by John Day, ACWA Board member