Toads, particularly from the family Bufonidae, are known for their dry, leathery skin, short legs, and large bumps on their parotoid glands. These bumps, often called warts, are not pathological; they are fixed in size and not linked to infections, so handling toads does not cause warts.
Toads migrate to breeding areas like ponds and lakes, using their calls as cues for navigation. They often return to their original breeding ponds, increasing the chances of encountering siblings. Despite the potential for inbreeding, toads typically avoid mating with close relatives, using vocalizations to help recognize kin, which prevents the negative effects of inbreeding.
In the UK, common toads can be found climbing trees to hide in hollows or nest boxes.
