Eastern Narrow-mouthed Toad - Gastrophryne carolinensis carolinensis
Sheep
Description & Identification:
Small, may reach 1.25" (36mm). Variable in color and may change color but generally black to dark gray and may appear bluish; some individuals may have a coppery, irregular pattern on the sides. Body plump and roundish; legs are short and stubby; head is short and narrow, snout is pointed, and there is a fold of skin across the back of the head just behind the eyes; belly is mottled with dark pigment; skin is smooth.
Development:
Eggs are firm spheres, black above and white below; laid on the water surface in small masses; hatch within two days. Tadpoles are small; body all black with tiny specks of gray or blue; buff stripe along sides and the mid-body is apricot; tail muscle has a light stripe; blotches on the tail fin which has a dark tip. Metamorphose is approximately 1 month.
Habitat & Behaviors:
Secretive, seldom seen, and rarely live near human habitation. Generally hides by day and ventures out during warm, damp nights to feed upon insects, especially ants. Spends much time in moist soils or under logs and debris where it apparently feeds on ants and termites. The fold of skin can be moved forward over the eyes to protect them from biting insects. When uncovered and disturbed, their escape is by running which may be accompanied by a series of short hops. They are difficult to catch and often seek refuge into the nearest crack or crevice. During amplexus, the male attaches itself upon the back of the female by a glue-like substance which it secretes from its stomach.
Similar Species:
True toad (Family Bufonidae) have warty skin and lack the fold of skin across the back of the head.
Voice Call:
A loud "whaaa" similar to a baying sheep; March through early September, especially during heavy rains.
This frog has been observed at the following locations. Click on the map to view the data.
