Identification
The Common Spade-foot Toad has a black-edged metatarsal tubercle on the hind foot, which is used for digging. This frog is very variable in colour and may be grey, brown, yellow or reddish brown. The pattern is usually a mottled greyish green. Maximum length is 40 mm.
Common Spade-foot Toad
Photographer: Peter Robertson / Source: Wildlife Profiles Pty. Ltd.
Distribution and habitat
The Common Spade-foot Toad occurs throughout western and northern Victoria in a range of habitats, from the basalt plains to mallee heaths.
Biology
Females lay large eggs in ephemeral waters such as ponds or wheel ruts, where the mortality rate is extremely high, and more permanent waters such as dams.
Further Reading
Barker, J., Grigg, G. and Tyler, M. J. 1995. A Field Guide to Australian Frogs. Surrey Beatty & Sons, Sydney.
Cogger, H. 2000. Reptiles and Amphibians of Australia. Reed Books, Sydney.
Hero, J. M., Littlejohn, M. & Marantelli, G. 1991. Frogwatch Field Guide to Victorian Frogs. Department of Conservation and Environment, East Melbourne.
Tyler, M. J. 1992. Encyclopaedia of Australian Animals: Frogs. Angus & Robertson, Sydney.