Toad and Frog Education Materials
Toads vs Frogs
Toads and frogs can both be found in Colorado, but they sometimes occupy different habitats. Toads can be found further away from water sources, but still need to have one close by. These do not have to be large bodies of water; creeks, ditches, or drainages are sufficient for a toad. Frogs typically stick closer to rivers and lakes where fresh, clean water is readily available. This is because frogs rely more on their skin for respiration than a toad does and dirty, sediment filled water can prevent healthy respiration.
Amphibians Can Breathe Through Their Skin
Most species of amphibians have a reduced diaphragm meaning they need to supplement their bodies with oxygen they get through their skin. Their skin needs to be moist for optimal diffusion, which is why rehabilitators must keep their hands wet with clean water when handling amphibians.
Don’t Release Pets
Invasive species can arrive into a native ecosystem in several ways, but one avenue is when people release unwanted pets into them. The bullfrog is a perfect example of how dangerous this can be to wildlife. Once a bullfrog establishes itself into a habitat, they will often outcompete native wildlife populations by eating them or the food sources those native species rely on. If you have an unwanted pet, the right thing to do is to surrender it to a rescue or shelter that will rehome them.
Chytrid Fungus
Chytrid fungus has caused some serious damage to native Colorado amphibians, especially boreal toads. Boreal toads are endangered but thankfully the state has taken steps to intervene and change this. One of the only naturally occurring boreal toad populations is in Larimer county.