Eastern Narrow-mouthed Toad
Latin Name: Gastrophryne carolinensis
Species: Amphibian
Conservation Status: S4-5 - Secure
This small frog only reaches approximately 1.25 inches and is most recognizable for its unique shape: a round body with a narrow, pointy nose. They have a fold of skin behind the eyes and lack a tympanum (ear drum) that is common in other frogs. Their coloration can vary but is often mottled in shades of gray, brown, yellow, or red.
Range & Habitat (map)
Eastern narrow-mouthed toads are found from southern Florida up to Maryland and as far west as central Texas. They tend to live near water in places with plenty of leaf litter or soil in which they can burrow.
Diet
Adults primarily eat small insects, particularly ants- though it is still being determined whether they eat highly invasive fire ants. They may be able to extend the fold of skin on their head to shield their eyes from ants. Tadpoles mainly eat plankton found in the water.
Life History
Eastern narrow-mouthed toads breed during warm, rainy weather in the spring through early fall. Females often lay eggs in temporary aquatic sites such as ditches and puddles. Tadpoles develop over 3-10 weeks before they metamorphose into their adult form.
Significance
Animals like frogs and toads are important indicators of the health of their environment because of their permeable skin. Their skin absorbs oxygen and water, also making them vulnerable to toxins in the environment. If an area becomes polluted, frogs and toads are often some of the first animals to be impacted.
Threats & How You Can Help
Like many animals, eastern narrow-mouthed toads are most threatened by habitat loss and fragmentation. Their affinity to call from and breed in roadside ditches also leads to high road mortality.