Differences Between Frogs and Toads

Frogs and toads make up the largest group of amphibians, with more than 5,000 species worldwide. Frogs and toads look very similar, but there are some differences that distinguish them from one another.

Frogs are generally found near water sources, as they are more aquatic than toads. If you find an amphibian in your yard or garden, far away from a water source it is likely a toad. Toads prefer drier habitats and are more tolerant of water loss than frogs. As such, frog skin is smoother and can feel slimy. Toad skin is generally thicker and drier and often looks warty. These warts are actually not warts as we know them, so they are not contagious. They are granular glands that are filled with substances that help defend the toads by making them unpalatable to predators. Some of these toxins can be fatal, and have been known to kill curious pets.

Both frogs and toads lay their eggs in water, have larvae that develop into tadpoles which go through metamorphosis and become terrestrial. However, most frogs lay eggs in masses, while toads lay eggs that are in long chains. (Of course, there are species in each of these groups that vary in this aspect.)

Toads are often more opportunistic when it comes to deciding where to lay their eggs. Eggs are many times found in water-filled tire ruts and drainage ditches. They can undergo metamorphosis more quickly than frogs (as little as 8 days in some desert-dwelling species), but as a consequence they emerge from ponds markedly smaller than frog species.

Frogs are more agile than toads. Frog legs (besides being more edible) are longer, and better adapted for swimming and leaping. Frog bodies are longer and leaner, while toad bodies appear, well, toadlike. Frog toes are more webbed to aid them in swimming, while toad limbs are stubbier and not as webbed.

Toads also have a nasty habit of urinating when handled. This is an adaptive mechanism. Losing the urine makes them lighter, so they can jump farther away from the grasp of a predator. Toads also have the ability to fill themselves up with air in an attempt to increase their body size.