Western Toad

The western toad (Anaxyrus boreas) is a large toad species and one of the few amphibians found in the high elevations of the Canadian Rockies. In Banff National Park, it is a species of special concern due to habitat loss and disease.

Identification

Large (2–5 inches long), with warty skin that ranges in colour from olive green to brownish-gray. A distinctive light-coloured stripe runs down the centre of its back. Unlike many frogs, western toads walk or crawl rather than hop.

Habitat and Life Cycle

Western toads inhabit a variety of environments, from forests to alpine meadows. They require shallow, still water for breeding and egg-laying in the spring. In late summer, thousands of tiny toadlets can sometimes be seen migrating from breeding ponds to the surrounding forest.

Viewing and Conservation

They are most active at night or during damp, cool days. If you see them on a trail, please step carefully. Do not handle toads; their skin is sensitive to chemicals on human hands, and they can produce a mild toxin (bufotoxin) from glands behind their eyes as a defense.