A remarkable small toad characterized by its brownish coloration adorned with two distinctive yellowish stripes running along its back. These stripes can either diverge or converge, creating patterns reminiscent of a lyre or an hourglass. However, what truly sets this species apart from other similar amphibians is its unique adaptation: its spade-like hind feet, from which it derives its name.
These specialized hind feet enable the Eastern spadefoot to dig into the ground with remarkable efficiency, allowing it to burrow into the soil and remain dormant for extended periods. Incredibly, this toad can stay underground for up to nine months, utilizing its burrowing ability as a strategy to survive harsh environmental conditions, such as droughts or extreme temperatures. This adaptation allows the Eastern spadefoot to conserve energy and moisture during periods of adversity, ensuring its survival in challenging environments.
Despite being relatively common and unprotected in some regions, the Eastern spadefoot faces conservation concerns, particularly in northern portions of its range. One of the primary threats to its survival is habitat loss, specifically the destruction of wetlands. Wetlands play a crucial role in the Eastern spadefoot’s life cycle, serving as important breeding grounds and providing essential resources such as food and shelter.
Distribution
Armenia
Azerbaijan
Georgia
Iran
Iraq
Israel
Jordan
Official estimate
Lebanon
Russia
Syria
TurkeyAnything we've missed?
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Terrestrial / Aquatic
Altricial / Precocial
Polygamous / Monogamous
Dimorphic (size) / Monomorphic
Active: Diurnal / Nocturnal
Social behavior: Solitary / Pack / Herd
Diet: Carnivore / Herbivore / Omnivore / Piscivorous / Insectivore
Migratory: Yes / No
Domesticated: Yes / No
Dangerous: Yes / No
