A small toad-like amphibian endemic to California's vernal pool ecosystem. Populations have crashed with development of Central Valley grassland habitats.

Native status: Native to western US

§ Quick facts

SizeBody 4–9 cm
Weight15–60 g
LifespanWild 5–9 years
OrderAnura
FamilyScaphiopodidae

§ Encyclopedia

Spea hammondii, also known as the western spadefoot, western spadefoot toad, Hammond's spadefoot, or Hammond's spadefoot toad, is a species of amphibian in the family Scaphiopodidae. It is found in western California (USA) and northwestern Baja California (Mexico). The specific name hammondii is in honor of physician and naturalist William Alexander Hammond.

Source: Wikipedia — Spea hammondii Licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

§ Identification

Field marks. Medium toad with brown or gray skin; vertical pupils; spade on hind foot.

Similar species. Other US Spadefoot species. True toads (different pupils).

Voice. Snoring call.

§ Diet & behavior

Diet. Insects.

Behavior. Burrowing toad of western North America. Vertical pupils. Federally endangered status under consideration for some populations.

§ Range

California and Baja California

§ Habitat

Vernal pools, valley grasslands

§ Threats

Loss of vernal pool habitat, urban development, agriculture.

§ Conservation status

According to the IUCN Red List, the western spadefoot is currently classified as Near Threatened.

§ What helps

Support vernal pool protection in California. Donate to The Nature Conservancy California programs.

Support our work More ways to help

§ Further reading

§ Sources cited

  • AmphibiaWeb
  • USFWS California Field Office
  • IUCN Red List 2014