Family Bufonidae – Toads

Oak toad (Bufo quercicus)

• Description: 3/4-1 1/4 inches; gray to almost black; white or orange stripe down middle of back bisecting 2-5 pairs of dark blotches.

• Distribution: Southern one-third of state; may be local in northern part of this area; generally common but not often encountered.

• Breeding period: April to July during warm, rainy periods.

• Breeding sites: Rainpools, small ponds.

• Voice: "Peep," repeated; a chorus sounds like a group of young chicks.

• Comments: Individual and chorus with green treefrogs in background recorded near Gulfport in Harrison County.