Spea multiplicata

Scientific name. Spea multiplicata

Common Name. Western Spadefoot

General information. Spea multiplicata is nocturnal, but is rarely seen without rain. It burrows deeply underground backwards using its hind feet.

Protected status. The Western Spadefoot is not a protected species in Texas and can be legally collected with a hunting license.

Diagnostic features. Stout toad with NO boss between eyes (present in S. bombifrons) Vertical pupils Hind limbs have single, wedge-shaped tubercle, or spade on inner surface (sickle-shaped in Scaphiopus)

Coloration. Dorsal color varies from gray to brown, may also be green or almost black with orange or yellow tipped warts on back Four vague light-stripes may run length of dorsum. Ventral surface white or cream-colored.

General distribution. In North America, Spea multiplicata is found in the southwest United States and central Mexico.

Texas distribution. In Texas, Spea multiplicata is found in west Texas and the Panhandle.

Habitat. Spea multiplicata prefers arid regions with loose, sandy soil, grasslands, and cultivated fields.

Reproduction. Breeding in Spea multiplicata occurs from January to August with rain. Eggs hatch within 48 hours and the tadpoles develop quickly in young toadlets in less than 14 days.

Size. Spea multiplicata reaches an adult size between 4-7 cm (1.5-2.5 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.