Toad

Toads are a number of kinds of batrachian amphibians, found worldwide, even as far North as the Arctic Circle.

While the distinction between toads and frogs is to some extent an arbitrary one, a toad will typically move in an ambulatory fashion (i.e. by walking) whereas a frog will hop. Toads are also generally more terrestrial in their habits.

Most toads are predatory upon invertebrates and other small animals.

The main defence of toads is unpleasant-tasting or poisonous skin-secretions, though some will also inflate themselves to avoid being readily swallowed. The North American toad Bufo alvarius is actively sought by 'toad-lickers' [1] for its powerfully psychoactive secretions.

In parts of Australasia, the introduced cane toad, lacking any natural predators, has become a serious pest.

When frightened the green gogataki toad (Amphibius Gogatakius)has been known to "explode". Through "explosion" the toad secrets a painful toxin that in large doses can lead to burns and even blindness. With the destruction of the rain forests humans are coming into closer contact with this dangerous species.