Sclerophrys regularis (Reuss, 1833)

Species Introduction

The African common toad, Sclerophrys regularis, is a large, sturdy toad with warty skin.

Size

Males reach a snout-to-vent length of 62 to 91 mm (2.4 to 3.6 inches), while females grow to 70 to 130 mm (2.8 to 5.1 inches).

Gland and Vocal Sac Structure

It has large paratoid glands that are either parallel or kidney-shaped, and males have a single vocal sac under the chin.

Dorsal Coloration

Its dorsal surface is dark olive-brown with dark patches on the back, which are often arranged fairly symmetrically.

Juvenile Markings

Young individuals have a paler band running along the spine.

Facial and Flank Markings

Smaller dark blotches appear on the upper lip and eyelids, and the warts on the flanks are often separated by dark markings.

Underpart Coloration

Male toads have black throats, and the underparts of both sexes range from white to beige.

Call Characteristics

The call of this species is a rattling sound made of two pulses that lasts approximately 0.9 seconds.

Anti-Predator Behavior

When threatened, this toad bounces to confuse predators or escape, and it will also move through water.

Hind Foot Structure

It has webbed hind feet to help propel it through water.

Habitat Range

The African common toad is an abundant species that occurs in moist and dry savanna, montane grassland, forest margins, and agricultural habitats.

Breeding Habitat

It is often found near rivers, where it also breeds.

Forest Zone Occurrence

It is not a true forest species, but it can still be found in degraded habitats and towns (including gardens) within the forest zone.

Regional Replacement Species

In drier regions, it is replaced by other species such as Amietophrynus garmani and Amietophrynus xeros.