Frogs and Toads
Plains Spadefoot
Spea bombifrons
Across the regions where it's common, the Plains Spadefoot peaks from May to July.
Shows up in 3 ecoregions and 6 states
Keep Herp Calendar free
Hi, I'm Nick. I built Herp Calendar on my own and I keep it free, with no ads. If it has helped you find a herp this season, a small tip goes straight into the hosting and the data work. Only if you can spare it. Either way, I'm glad you're here.
Frogs and Toads
Plains Spadefoot
Spea bombifrons
Description
The plains spadefoot toad (Spea bombifrons) is a species of American spadefoot toad which ranges from southwestern Canada, throughout the Great Plains of the western United States, and into northern Mexico. The plains spadefoot toad generally grows from 1.5 to 2.5 inches (3.8 to 6.4 cm) in length, has a round body, with relatively short legs.Wikipedia ↗
Habitat
Spea bombifrons are famous for thriving in xeric environments, but a related species, Scaphiopus holbrookii has similar adaptation but does not live in similar extreme environments. Garter snakes predate most tadpoles, but often are not found in the desert, preferring riparian habitats.Wikipedia ↗
When it's active
The tadpoles are also predated on by cannibal morphs, dragonfly larvae, giant scavenger beetles, and mosquito fish. Plains spadefoot toads are nocturnal and secretive.Wikipedia ↗
When and where it's active
Each row is its own calendar, counted from records in that area. Seasons shift by place.
Ecoregions
States
About the Plains Spadefoot
When is the Plains Spadefoot most active?
Across the regions where it's common, the Plains Spadefoot peaks from May to July.
Where does the Plains Spadefoot live?
It has enough records to show in 3 ecoregions and 6 states, including Colorado, Kansas, Nebraska, and New Mexico.