Incilius valliceps (Wiegmann, 1833)

Size

The Gulf Coast toad (Incilius valliceps) is a medium-sized toad species, with individuals ranging from 2.5 to 10.2 cm (1 to 4 inches) in length.

Dorsal Coloration

The color of their back varies from nearly black to multiple shades of brown and grey, and they have a distinctive white or yellow stripe running down the center of the back. Sometimes, they also have lighter colored patches on their sides.

Ventral Coloration

Their underside is yellow or cream colored.

Skin Texture

The back of the Gulf Coast toad is covered in small tubercles, while the underside usually has no tubercles.

Cranial Ridging

Within its geographic range, I. valliceps has the most extensive cranial ridging of any toad. The ridges run from the nose to the back of the head, with one branch wrapping around the back side of the eye.

Habitat Range

Gulf Coast toads occupy a wide range of habitats, including open grassland, semi-arid regions, light forest, and even suburban backyards.

Ecology and Behavior

They are typically found not far from a permanent water source, which they use for breeding in the spring, but they can travel long distances while foraging for food.