Common cape toad
A species of Southern toads Scientific name : Vandijkophrynus angusticeps Genus : Southern toads
Common cape toad, A species of Southern toads
Scientific name: Vandijkophrynus angusticeps
Genus: Southern toads
Content
Description General Info
Photo By jacquesmerwe923 , used under CC-BY-SA-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Description
The sand toad, Cape sand toad, common Cape toad, or narrow-headed toad (Vandijkophrynus angusticeps) is a species of toad in the family Bufonidae (true toads). It is endemic to South Africa and found in southwestern and southern part of Western Cape Province to extreme southwestern Eastern Cape Province, from Nieuwoudtville in the west to Humansdorp in the east, along the coastal flats and Cape Fold Mountains from the sea level to 1,500Â m (4,900Â ft) asl.
General Info
Lifespan
10-15 years
Diet
Common cape toad is an insectivorous species, chiefly subsisting on ants. Additionally, their diet accommodates other small invertebrates, like termites and beetles, decisively contributing in controlling pest populations.
Appearance
Common cape toad is a medium-sized toad with a robust, muscular body and warty skin. Its striking feature is the broad head with narrow snout. Colors range from yellowish-brown to dark brown with irregular darker spots. This species lack horns or wings, but possess parotoid glands behind the eyes, releasing toxins when threatened. There are no marked differences in appearance due to age, gender, or subspecies.
Behavior
Common cape toad is a nocturnal and terrestrial species that typically lives solitarily. It forages on the ground, primarily feeding on ants and termites. Not known for territorial behaviors, it relies on camouflage for survival, blending in with its dry, desertic habitat.
Photo By jacquesmerwe923 , used under CC-BY-SA-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Amphibians Order
Frogs and toads Family
True toad Genus
Southern toads Species
Common cape toad