Critter: Sonoran Desert Toad

Courtesy Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum

Call me: Sonoran Desert Toad, formerly the Colorado River Toad.

My physique: I am the king of toads out here. The largest toad in Arizona or California, I can weigh in at more than 2 pounds and be up to 7 1/2 inches long.

My best features: I happen to think the distinctive white warts at the corners of my mouth are quite attractive. They blend nicely with the rest of the warts on my brown to olive skin.

Cautionary note: Not exactly known for my speed, my best defense is chemical warfare. A poisonous toxin is produced by glands all over my skin, but especially in two raised oval glands behind the eyes. It is extremely toxic to pets and young children. So do be careful around me.

I'm not all bad: One of my beneficial attributes is the number of crickets and roaches I consume. I will even eat mice and small snakes.

Favorite time of year: The rainy season is my time to croak. I am not seen for most of the year, but as soon as those summer monsoons arrive I will start showing up near ponds and rainpools looking for love. Listen for me in the evenings, just don't touch!