Spea bombifrons 🐸 Traditional Cache

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The Plains Spadefoot Toad

(Spea bombifrons)

     The Plains Spadefoot toad (Spea bombifrons) is a unique amphibian among the American array of frogs and toads. Iowa’s little spadefoots possess three distinct features that set them apart from their compadres. Firstly, spadefoots have vertical pupils rather than the normal horizontal pupils most other amphibians have. This gives them a special, cat-like look. Secondly, they have smooth skin - not warty as is the case with so many other toads! Thirdly, they possess the exceptional trait of being the amphibian world’s equivalent to a backhoe! Spadefoots are so named because they have little hardened flaps under both of their hind feet. These flaps are specially and specifically designed for digging into Iowa’s rich earth in order to provide this hard little worker a home! 

     Spadefoots are most prevalent in western Iowa from May to September and grow to about two inches in length. They prefer a little humidity and stay underground most of the time. As with nearly every other toad, these little guys like small insects for dinner. If you catch one and decide to keep it as a pet, please read up on them for specific feeding, UVA/B lighting, and substrate requirements. Once you have it and are actively caring for it, you will see just how truly amazing these guys are. 
For more information on the Plains Spadefoot toad:

http://www.herpnet.net/Iowa-Herpetology/amphibians/frogs-and-toads-2/plains-spadefoot-spea-bombifrons/

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