Fowler’s Toad resting among dry pine needles in a Lavaca Arkansas yard

Fowler’s Toad Missing from My Yard This Summer

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I usually see a Fowler’s Toad in my yard during the summer. This year has been different.

I have been watching the grass and pine needles, but I have not seen one yet. That makes this quiet summer stand out.

Fowler’s Toad Missing from My Summer Yard

A Fowler’s Toad is a familiar backyard visitor here in Lavaca, Arkansas. I often notice them in summer, especially when I am outside working in the yard.

Last June, I photographed one resting in the pine needles. It had not rained lately, but the toad seemed settled in that dry cover.

Fowler’s Toad resting among dry pine needles in a Lavaca Arkansas yard
A Fowler’s Toad rests in dry pine needles in my yard in Lavaca, Arkansas.

These toads can blend in well. Their bumpy bodies and brown-gray color help them disappear against soil, leaves, and pine needles.

That camouflage is one reason I stay careful when mowing. Toads and frogs can be tucked down in the grass before I ever notice them.

I have more about this species here: Fowler’s Toad.

Searching Pine Needles and Grass for Backyard Toads

This summer, I have not seen a single Fowler’s Toad in the yard. I did spot a Leopard Frog while mowing, but no Fowler’s Toads.

I do not know the reason. Hot, dry weather may have kept them hidden. It is also possible I just have not crossed paths with one yet.

Amphibians can be sensitive to changes around them. I hope this is only a quiet stretch and not a sign of a local decline.

For now, I will keep watching the shaded spots, pine needles, and thicker grass. A well-hidden toad can be close by and still go unseen.

Photographing a Fowler’s Toad in Lavaca

The photo came from a simple yard encounter. I used a long lens, which let me stay back and avoid crowding the toad.

The pine needles gave the scene a natural setting. They also showed how easily this toad can blend into a backyard.

Camera details:

  • Camera: Fujifilm X-T3
  • Lens: Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 L IS II with Fringer EF-FX Pro
  • Location: Lavaca, Arkansas
  • Date and time: June 6, 2021, 10:43 A.M.
  • Aperture: f/7.1
  • Shutter speed: 1/600
  • ISO: 1600
  • Exposure compensation: -0.3
  • Focal length: 400mm

This summer has reminded me to look closer at familiar places. Sometimes the wildlife I expect to see is the wildlife I miss the most when it is gone.