Species: American toad (Anaxyrus americanus)
Intake Date: October 28, 2024
Basil is our resident American Toad (Anaxyrus americanus). He came to us on October 28, 2024, after being found in Meadowbrook Park in Urbana, Illinois with an injured rear leg. Unfortunately, we could not surgically repair his leg and it had to be amputated. Missing a rear leg makes him non-releasable and this is due to him moving slower so being more prone to predation and having a harder time catching food. Basil has a great personality and has adapted well to life in captivity. He enjoys spending his days burrowed in his substrate or hiding under plants and various hides in his spacious enclosure. He has been great going to programs and educating people on amphibians and their importance in the wild. He is a great addition to our program and a great ambassador for his species.
Fun Facts
Toads can be brown, gray, red, or olive color and their skin color can change depending on temperature, humidity, and stress levels. Many toads and frogs have a unique way of eating. They launch their sticky tongue out and grab the prey, pulling it back into their mouth. However, they have weak swallowing muscles, so they blink their eyes and their eyes protrude into their mouth and help push the food down their throat.