While many parents are rejoicing as the kids are heading back to school this week, the beginning of September also reminds us that winter is quickly approaching. Now this may not be a big deal for some of our southern readers but if you live in Canada, you are most likely clinging to the last of the BBQs, beaches and flip flops. To help you hold onto that dream of summer, we are taking a little virtual trip to California where we will discover a Western Toad sub-species appropriately called, the California Toad. I know, the common name is not exactly original but at least is accurate.

Slow Walkers

What I find most fascinating about the California Toad is how they get from place to place. Unlike frogs that practice the standard hop, this toad species (and most toad species) like to simply walk around. Okay, so maybe it isn’t as fascinating as the toads using a pogo stick to move around but it is still pretty interesting to think about a toad simply walking (seriously…think about it). Now you might be thinking that walking would be way slower than hopping and as a result these toads would be less of a challenge for hungry predators. Well you would be right about one thing, walking is slower than hopping.

Not For Consumption

Since the California Toad like to take its time walking from place to place, they have evolved a nifty little defence mechanism that helps them ward off any aggressive predators. These clever little toads will produce a poisonous secretion from their skin glands (their warts). This white, icky substance most likely won’t kill their predator but it will definitely irritate their mouth, eyes and probably their nose. Naturally, this irritation makes it tough to enjoy your meal and as such, many predators choose to spit out their supper and look for a meal replacement. Obviously when this happens, the California Toad wins and might even get to live for another day.

California Toad Fast Fact

The population of California toads appears to be on the decline as a result of habitat loss, pollution and probably fast moving vehicles…remember, these toads are slow so they will often get smushed as they cross the road. All of these factors are causing our beautiful, little toxin producing toad to disappear.

Photo Credit:  Gary Nafis