Taxonomy
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Chordata
- Class
- Amphibian
- Order
- Anura
- Family
- Rhinophrynidae
Habitat
This species inhabits arid and semi-arid regions of Mexico and Central America, favoring loose, sandy or loamy soils for burrowing. It is often found in grasslands, scrublands, and agricultural areas near temporary ponds or rainwater pools for breeding.
Diet
The Mexican burrowing toad primarily feeds on ants and termites, which it captures using its long, sticky tongue. It forages nocturnally after emerging from burrows, especially following rains when prey is more active.
Behavior
This toad is solitary and fossorial, spending most of the day buried underground to avoid desiccation and predators. It becomes active at night or during heavy rains, exhibiting explosive breeding aggregations where males call to attract females. Territorial behavior is minimal outside of breeding seasons.
Conservation Status
The IUCN classifies the Mexican burrowing toad as Least Concern, with a stable population trend. Major threats include habitat loss from agriculture and urbanization.