Animal of the Week
American toads can live almost anywhere. As long as there is a source of semi-permanent water during breeding season, they may be found in habitats ranging from forests and backyards to gardens and agricultural fields.
The toad pictured here was rescued as it was being eaten by a snake, the most common predator of toads. It was admitted to Wild Instincts with a broken front left leg, but is expected to make a full recovery.
American toads are widely considered friends to gardeners and farmers because they eat many species of pest insects and other invertebrates. One toad can eat up to 1,000 insects a day. This breed of toad is recognizable by its unique call; it gives off long “trill” sounds that each last between 4 and 20 seconds.
Contrary to folklore, a person will not get warts by touching touch a toad. However, the defensive chemicals in toad skin are toxic to humans, so it’s important to wash hands carefully after handling one.
Wild Instincts may be reached for injured and orphaned wildlife emergencies 24 hours a day, seven days a week, at (715) 362-WILD (9453).
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