Amphibians

Verde Valley Amphibians

Although many people think of Arizona as a dry, hot desert, the plentiful rivers, lakes, and streams within the state allows for a steady amphibian population. Specifically at Tuzigoot, taking a walk through Tavasci Marsh can provide opportunities to see numerous species of frogs and toads. There are 24 native frog and toad species and one salamander species in Arizona. The biggest threat to these species is underground pumping and water diversion to the booming suburban communities.

Tiger Salamander (Ambystoma tigrinum)

Tiger Salamanders are Arizona’s only native salamander species and protected under state law. Their coloration can change from black to light olive-brown shades with light spots along their back. Seeing them is a rare sight as they spend most of their time in burrows and under surface object near bodies of water. Tiger Salamanders eats a variety of invertebrates and will return to bodies of water during spring in order to breed.

Mexican Spadefoot (Spea multiplicata)

Mexican Spadefoots are small, white colored toads with dark blotches and small red spots, but not as large as the Red-spotted Toads. They most feed upon spiders, centipedes, scorpions and other insects. They burrow underground during winter months and due to strong vibrations caused by thunderstorms, specifically during monsoon season. Their call resembles a long, vibrating snore.

Red-spotted Toad (Anaxyrus punctatus)

This small, gray-tan toad is easily recognizable by its large red spots across its skin. They are fairly common within the Verde Valley due to the available riparian habitat. Red-spotted toads are nocturnal and spend most of their days hiding under rock crevices in order to escape the heat. They eat mostly insects and breed in the spring and summer. Their mating call is a clear, long monotonous trill.

Arizona Toad (Anaxyrus microscaphus)

Arizona Toads are around 4 inches in length and can be identified by their large bumpy light brown skin. They are nocturnal and eat a variety of insects and invertebrates. They will breed I the spring, regardless of precipitation. They occur only in Central Arizona and are threatened due to habitat alteration and destruction. Their mating call is a high, musical pitch.

American Bullfrog (Lithobates catesbeianus)

This non-native species is one of the largest in Arizona, maxing around 8 inches. Their bodies are shades of brown and green, with a bright green head. American Bullfrogs are dependent on perennial water sources for reproduction, which has allowed them to spread rapidly within the riparian corridors of Arizona. One reason they are harmful to native ecosystems is their ability to eat just about anything. This includes, fish, crayfish, native frogs, bats, and small mammals. Females are also capable of laying a clutch of up to 20,000 eggs, far more than most native species are able to produce in a single season.