Pelobates cultripes (Cuvier, 1829)

Species and Appearance

Pelobates cultripes, the western spadefoot toad, is a large smooth-skinned toad with silvery gold or greenish eyes and vertical pupils.

Hind Foot Modifications

It has a black spade-shaped structure on its hind foot, which gives the species its common name. The edged inner callus of the hind foot is modified for digging.

Dorsal Coloration

The upper surface of the body is greyish-yellow, marked with dark brown or greenish blotches and spots.

Adult Size

Adults can grow up to 11 cm long; this species is larger and greener than the closely related common spadefoot, Pelobates fuscus.

Tadpole Size

The tadpoles of Pelobates cultripes are larger than the tadpoles of most other toad species.

Geographic Range

This species is primarily distributed across Portugal, Spain, and parts of France, and its range does not overlap with that of the common spadefoot.

Habitat Preferences

It inhabits open areas, usually with soft or sandy soils, and can be found at elevations up to 1,800 meters.