Field Guide to Maryland's Frogs and Toads (Order Anura)

Fowler’s Toad (Anaxyrus fowleri)

Former Name:
Size: 2-3 inches Record - 3¾ inches
Appearance: Three or more warts in each of the large dark spots on a brown, grey or greenish back. A light line often bisects the back from between the eyes to the lower back. It has a comparatively unspotted chest and belly. No enlarged warts on the arms. A parotoid gland that touches the ridge behind the eye. This is the most common toad on the Coastal Plain. May hybridize with American Toad.
Habitats: Primarily in areas with sandy soils, but can be found in most habitats, from fields to forests. Breeds in shallow wet depressions, roadside ditches, and shallow margins of permanent bodies of water. Onset of breeding is later than American Toads, from late April through July. Photo of Habitat for Fowler's Toad courtesy of Andy Becker
How to Find: Listen for the call, a short nasally buzzing trill “quaaaa” lasting from 1-4 seconds, on humid nights. Like the American Toad, will be active on warm rainy nights, but are also easily found during daytime anywhere. A nighttime favorite, can be found on the ground adjacent to buildings where they feed on the insects attracted to exterior lights.
Distribution in Maryland: Fowler’s toads can be found throughout Maryland.
For More Information: Maryland Amphibian and Reptile Atlas (MARA) Database Maryland Biodiversity Project - American Toad

Fowler’s Toad (Anaxyrus fowleri)