The Nature Library

About Volumes Teacher's Corner

Home › Volumes › Frogs

Spadefoot Toads

Hermit Spadefoot Scaphiopus holbrookii Harlan
Hermit Spadefoot — Part 2 Scaphiopus holbrookii Harlan
Hermit Spadefoot — Part 3 Scaphiopus holbrookii Harlan
Hermit Spadefoot — Part 4 Scaphiopus holbrookii Harlan
Spadefoot of the Western Plains Scaphiopus hammondii bombifrons Cope

2026 Editor's Note: Although commonly referred to as toads, these amphibians are technically frogs belonging to the family Scaphiopodidae. In response to high population density or evaporating ponds, some tadpoles exhibit phenotypic plasticity by developing into a larger carnivore morph with enlarged jaw muscles. These carnivorous individuals use kin recognition to avoid eating siblings, though they may consume relatives if their own survival is severely threatened. (Ed: GG 2026-08-11)

About Historical Disclaimer Terms and Conditions Privacy Policy Contact

The Nature Library (published in the early twentieth century) is in the public domain; this digital edition © 2026 PhotoOpAI.