Also known as the African common toad, it is a resilient and adaptable amphibian native to sub-Saharan Africa. Guttural toad is a medium-sized toad with a robust and squat body covered in rough, warty skin, which can vary in color from brown to olive green. This coloration provides excellent camouflage in its natur l environment. The toad’s underbelly is generally lighter, often cream or white. One of its most distinguishing features is its large parotoid glands located behind the eyes. These glands secrete a toxic substance that helps protect the toad from predators. Additionally, its eyes have horizontal pupils, which are typical of many toad species.

The Guttural toad is widely distributed across sub-Saharan Africa, from South Africa to Ethiopia. It is a highly adaptable species that can be found in a variety of habitats. Its ability to thrive in both natural and human-modified environments has contributed to its widespread distribution. The toad is particularly common in areas with access to water sources, such as ponds, rivers, and wetlands, which are essential for its breeding.

Primarily nocturnal, this toad becomes active at night to forage for food. Its diverse diet includes insects, spiders, worms, and other small invertebrates. The toad uses its sticky tongue to capture prey with remarkable speed and precision. During the day, the Guttural Toad seeks shelter in burrows, under rocks, or in dense vegetation to avoid predators and extreme temperatures. Its warty skin helps it retain moisture, which is crucial for its survival in dry environments.

Distribution

Country

Population est.

Status

Year

Comments

Angola

2013

Botswana

2013

DR Congo (Kinshasa)

2013

Eswatini

2013

Kenya

2013

Lesotho

2013

Malawi

2013

Mauritius

2013

Introduced

Mozambique

2013

Namibia

2013

Réunion

2013

Introduced

Somalia

2013

South Africa

2013

Tanzania

2013

Zambia

2013

Zimbabwe

2013