Gastrophryne olivacea

Scientific name. Gastrophryne olivacea

Common Name. Great Plains Narrow-mouthed Toad

General information. Gastrophryne olivacea typically hides under rocks and other debris in damp places and feeds mainly on ants.

Protected status. The Great Plains Narrow-mouthed Toad is not a protected species in Texas and can be legally collected with a hunting license.

Diagnostic features. Small, oval body with smooth skin Small head with pointed snout and fold of skin immediately behind eyes. Hind feet are not webbed; each foot with a single tubercle.

Coloration. Dorsal color varies with environment; can be gray, tan, or olive green. Small black spots may appear on dorsum Ventral surface light and unmarked Adult males with dark throat.

General distribution. In North America, Gastrophryne olivacea is found as far north as Nebraska and as far south as Tamaulipas, Mexico.

Texas distribution. In Texas, Gastrophryne olivacea is found in most of the state, except in far East Texas, the Panhandle, and the extreme western tip of Texas.

Habitat. Gastrophryne olivacea is seen in moist areas, in grasslands and on rocky slopes. Gastrophryne olivacea may also be found in rodent, reptile, and tarantula burrows.

Reproduction. Breeding in Gastrophryne olivacea occurs from March to September in rain-filled pools.

Size. Gastrophryne olivacea reaches an adult length of 2-4 cm (0.8-1.5 in).

Calls.

Map. Orange counties indicate new county records since previous Herps of Texas update in 1998; all other colored counties reflect known distribution prior to 1998 for species and/or subspecies. Map is based on museum voucher specimens.