Plains Spadefoot

Snout-Vent Length: 3.7 - 6.2 cm (record 6.4 cm)

Identification: relatively smooth skinned, stout-bodied toad, with a pug like snout and a vertical eye pupil; wedge-shaped bony projection on hind feet used for digging burrows; pale grey, brown or dull green coloration; lacks parotid glands; solid raised boss between eyes
Call: a distinct short duck-like note, repeated every 5-10 seconds

Habitat: temporary or permanent prairie ponds, usually in areas where soil is loose; found chiefly in short-grass prairie ecoregion

Cool Facts: these irruptive breeders are prompted by heavy rainfall; tadpoles develop extremely fast; accomplished burrowers, they can be found as deep as one meter below the surface