New mexico spadefoot toad
A species of Western spadefoot toads, Also known as Desert spadefoot toad, Mexican Spadefoot Scientific name : Spea multiplicata Genus : Western spadefoot toads
New mexico spadefoot toad, A species of Western spadefoot toads
Also known as:
Desert spadefoot toad, Mexican Spadefoot
Scientific name: Spea multiplicata
Genus: Western spadefoot toads
Content
Description General Info
Description
The New Mexico spadefoot toad (Spea multiplicata) is a species of American spadefoot toad found in the southwestern United States and Mexico. Like other species of spadefoot toad, they get their name from a distinctive spade-like projections on their hind legs which enable them to dig in sandy soils. Spea multiplicata can be identified by its wedge-shaped spade. Some sources also refer to the species as the Mexican spadefoot toad, desert spadefoot toad or sou
General Info
Lifespan
5-15 years
Diet
New mexico spadefoot toad's primary food source is small arthropods, such as insects and spiders. These creatures constitute a substantial part of their diet, signifying their carnivorous feeding characteristics. They search for food most actively during the night.
Appearance
New mexico spadefoot toad are small, plump toads, with rough, granulated skin. Their coloring ranges from pinkish-brown to gray, often featuring intricate dark markings. Males can be distinguished by dark throats during the mating season, while females tend to be larger. Notably, the underbellies are lighter, often a cream or white color, contrasting the darker dorsum.
Behavior
New mexico spadefoot toad exhibits fascinating behavioral adaptations. Instead of regular foraging, it filters detritus from the water to eat. It's known for its explosive breeding behavior during brief seasonal rains. Remarkably, new mexico spadefoot toad is an exceptional digger, creating burrows and retreats below ground in dry periods, often in communal groups. These adaptations make it perfectly suited to its unpredictable desert habitat.
Population
Stable
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Amphibians Order
Frogs and toads Family
American spadefoot toads Genus
Western spadefoot toads Species
New mexico spadefoot toad 
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