Yesterday I was out pulling Japanese Stiltgrass (Microstegium vimineum) from one of my gardens. Something that has to be done regularly or it will take over the world, totally eliminating the native plants. Groan.

I was rewarded for my work/good deed with a visit from a tiny American Toad (Anaxyrus americanus). Surely not any longer than 2 inches. Just the cutest thing. I suppose that I disturbed the little one, since they’re nocturnal. Oops. They grow to reach a whopping 4.25 inches.

The American Toad has a lovely call that makes me think of summer night sounds. You can listen to it by going here and clicking on the audio link: https://www.virginiaherpetologicalsociety.com/amphibians/frogsandtoads/eastern-american-toad/eastern_american_toad.php

They eat most anything on the menu such as worms, ants, spiders, mealworms, crickets, slugs and more. Good creatures to have around.

Most live just 1 to 2 years in the wild, though there are some that are fortunate to live for as long as 10 years.

Hoping that I’ll get to visit with this critter again!

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