Description

Eastern Spadefoots are small to medium dry-skinned amphibians found in the southeast portion of the state. It is the only representative of Scaphiopodidae in the state. They are 1.75 to 2.25 inches in length with gray or brown skin and bright yellow lines making a “lyre” shape on the dorsum (Peterson et al., 2016). Although often locally abundant, these frogs are nearly only seen after a heavy rain. They’ll then emerge from burrows to breed. 

Identifying Traits

• Paired bright-yellow lines on back
• Large yellow eyes
• Smoother skin than most toads (fewer warts)

Habitat

Areas with sandy or loose soils to burrow in open or forested land (Peterson et al., 2016)

Behavior

Males emit a guttural “mehhh” or grunting sound when calling. These frogs can be locally abundant after large rain events. They will take advantage of small temporary water bodies for breeding and laying eggs. The larva develop relatively quickly, transitioning with temporary water. This sort of breeding is often called “explosive breeding.” They spend much of the rest of their lives in hibernation.

Diet

Various invertebrates