Toad

Toads are amphibians that belong to the same broad group as frogs, although they often have thicker bodies, drier skin, and shorter legs. They are found in many parts of the world, except Antarctica, and can live in forests, grasslands, deserts, wetlands, and gardens.

Their skin often contains glands that produce substances helping them defend themselves against some predators. Unlike reptiles, toads do not have scales and their skin plays an important role in breathing and maintaining moisture. Most species spend much of their time on land but return to water or damp areas to reproduce.

Toads are mainly active at night and feed on small animals such as insects, worms, and other invertebrates. They use their sticky tongues to catch prey quickly. During reproduction, females usually lay eggs in water, where they develop into aquatic larvae called tadpoles before transforming into young toads.

Some species can survive in dry environments by hiding underground and becoming less active during unfavorable periods. Toads are valuable members of ecosystems because they help control insect populations and serve as food for other animals. However, many populations are affected by habitat loss, pollution, diseases, and changes in climate.