American Toad

Toads, contrary to popular belief, do not cause warts, but exude an irritating poison if handled. They are prize-winning insect eaters and should be welcomed in yard and garden. American toads belong to a large family of 335 different species throughout the world, and are primarily nocturnal. They produce a long trill-like song in early spring. Males have a dark throat and are smaller than females, which sometimes reach four inches in length.

Fire-Bellied Toad

This is one of the only amphibians that you will often see in pet stores that do not specialize in reptiles and amphibians. While this species is native to Eastern Europe and on the plains of Turkey at low altitudes, these individuals were born in captivity. They can secrete a toxin through the skin to ward off predators, and spend a great deal of time in water.

Bullfrog

The bullfrog is the largest frog species of the Berkshires and feeds on insects, crayfish and other frogs. Larger individuals take baby turtles, snakes, small birds and mice. Usually found along shorelines except during breeding season (May through July), they readily jump into the water when disturbed. Bullfrog tadpoles are large; reaching 4 to 6 inches, and stay two years in water before transforming into adult frogs.