Toad Life Cycle

Toad Life Cycle

• Toads undergo metamorphosis, a complete change in form during development. Humans, unlike toads, do not change form dramatically.

Stage 1: Egg

• Toad eggs are encased in a jelly-like substance.
• Females lay hundreds or thousands of eggs in ponds or streams.
• A tiny black dot inside the egg is the embryo.
• Some eggs do not survive.

Stage 2 & 3: Tadpole & Toadlet

• Eggs hatch into tadpoles (also called pollywogs).
• Tadpoles have tails and gills, needing water for breathing.
• They have jaws for eating algae.
• Toadlets resemble small toads, with legs developing.
• Toadlets have sticky tongues, and lungs allowing them to breathe air and survive on land, but they need water to prevent dehydration.

Stage 4: Toad

• The mature toad lacks a tail and has fully developed lungs.
• The toad has four legs for jumping.
• Adults start looking for mates.
• Females become ready to have babies around three years old; males around two years old
• During mating season, male toads call to attract females.
• This triggers an egg-laying cycle.

Explore the fascinating life cycle of toads, from eggs to adulthood. Discover the different stages including eggs, tadpoles, and fully developed toads. Understand the metamorphic process that distinguishes toads from other species.