Toads are frogs. The family Bufonidae, one of the twenty Frog families, encompasses over three hundred Toad species. Members of this family are squat, warty, with dry skins. Many have short hind legs for walking, which they prefer to do instead of hopping. The question of what is a toad and frog came about because in Europe, Common Toad (Bufo bufo) and Common Frog (Rana temporaria) seemed to be entirely different animals.
Many people fear Toads because of their appearance and poisonous skin. These shy Amphibians are quite harmless and are often a help, for They feed on poisonous animals. Toads do not bother anyone, since They live in dark dens in the woods and bury themselves in a hole for the winter.
Toads do not create warts. However, They do defend themselves by secreting a thick white poison from their glands. Toad’s venom is enough to kill a Dog, but the smell is so sour that it repels most predators.
Other ways that Toads defend themselves is by puffing up their bodies or by burrowing quickly. They also will run away and hide. If need be, Toad can live underground for three years without eating.
The inner strength that Toad possesses comes out in many ways. We can learn from Toad how to apply our inner strength when trouble threatens.
Toad Sub-Family’s Teachings Includes:
“Despite its external ugliness, on a spiritual level, the toad within itself has a release from its self-loathing.” Copyright: “Animal Messengers”, Scott Alexander King.
According to Dr. George P. Butler, Sr., Toad also teaches 'freedom' . Read more about Toad at his site. Do not forget to use your back button to return to this site.
Take time to read what Individual Toad Sub-Family Teachers have to teach.
Conservation Note: Several species of Toads are endangered in the United Kingdom and parts of Europe. The introduced Cane Toad of Australia is considered a pest and is endangering many native Australian species.
Purchase books on frogs and toads from Amazon.com
Photo of Black Toad courtesy of U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Va. Carper
March 6, 2008