European green toad

European green toad
Scientific classification
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Amphibia
Order: Anura
Family: Bufonidae
Genus: Bufo
Species: B. viridis
Binomial name
Bufo viridis
(Laurenti, 1768)

The European green toad (Bufo viridis) is a species of toad found in mainland Europe. They live in many areas, including steppes, mountainous areas, semi-deserts, and urban areas. They comprise at least 12 major evolutionary lineages, and there are variations in the colors and patterns of these toads across their range. The spots on their backs are usually anything from green to dark brown and sometimes red spots appear, too. Most toads have white or very lightly colored stomachs.

Mating call of the European green toad

European green toads will change their colour in response to heat and light changes, but to a greater degree than others. Female toads are larger than males and can lay 9,000 to 15,000 eggs at a time. They can reach a maximum size of 6 inches, but growth to this size is rare.

Diet

The toads eat a variety of insects and invertebrates, mainly crickets, meal worms, small butterflies, earthworms, moths, beetles and caterpillars. There has also been a reported attack on a bat.[1]

In captivity

European green toads require minimal care space. Like other toads, enjoy hiding and should be provided with decor to allow for this. Peat moss is another great accent to their environment, as it not only provides a hiding space but also helps keep humidity levels up.

References

  1. ↑ Mikula, P. 2015: Fish and amphibians as bat predators. European Journal of Ecology 1 (1): 71-80. Doi: 10.1515/eje-2015-0010
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