Crosswinds Marsh: A to Z

(American Toad)

The American toad, scientifically known as Anaxyrus americanus, is a widespread amphibian species native to North America. These toads typically inhabit a variety of terrestrial environments, ranging from forests and grasslands to suburban gardens and moist areas near streams or ponds. They are well-adapted to both rural and urban landscapes. With their distinctive warty skin and varying shades of brown, gray, or olive, American toads blend seamlessly into their surroundings, offering them camouflage from predators.

The lifecycle of the American toad begins in water, where eggs are laid in long, gelatinous strands in shallow ponds or slow-moving streams during the spring breeding season. After hatching, tadpoles emerge and undergo a transformation over several weeks, developing legs and eventually absorbing their tails to become fully-formed toadlets. Once matured, American toads leave the water and spend the majority of their lives on land, where they hunt insects and other small invertebrates, contributing to ecological balance. As nocturnal creatures, they seek shelter during the day under rocks, logs, or in burrows to avoid predators and maintain their moisture levels. Throughout their lifespan, American toads play a vital role in their ecosystems as both predators and prey, contributing to the intricate web of life in their habitats.

The Cache: This cache is one of twenty-six that were placed for the 2024 Naturefest. The series focuses on the flora, fauna, creatures, and insects that may be found in Crosswinds Marsh. This cache is a small lock and lock style container hidden along the horse trail

It has been placed with the permission of Wayne County Parks. A permit has been submitted and is on file at the park office.

Crosswinds Marsh Rules
No fires
No bikes / ATVs / personal watercraft
No swimming or ice fishing
Dogs must be leashed
No alcohol or illegal substances
No camping
Fishing in designated areas only
Collecting of plants & animals prohibited
Park only at N 42° 05.744' W 83° 26.552'
All Geocachers must follow the above rules.
Crosswinds Marsh is open from DAWN to DUSK. Admission is FREE.

The Crosswinds Cache Crew pledge to develop and maintain quality and interesting geocaches in the Marsh consistent with Geocaching and Wayne County Parks rules and permit process.