Care of a Sonoran Desert Toad

In the wild, Sonoran desert toads (Bufo alvarius) inhabit woodland, desert and scrubland stretches of the southern United States and Mexico. To keep them successfully in captivity, provide an environment that mimics their natural habitat as closely as possible. They also need a varied diet. Sonaran desert toads are long-lived, living at least 10 years, and sometimes much longer. Bear this in mind before adopting one; toads are a long-term commitment. Also, because handling Sonoran toads is dangerous to both them and the handler, they are rarely suitable pets for children.

Things You'll Need

  • 20-gallon or larger tank
  • Chemical-free potting compost or amphibian substrate
  • Pieces of bark or plastic shelters
  • Reptile heat mat
  • Dish with sloping sides
  • Live food
  • Calcium and vitamin supplement
  • Bucket
  • Cleaning cloths
  • Dishwashing liquid
  • Paper towels
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Instructions

    • 1

      Create a suitable habitat for your toad. Add at least 4 inches of chemical-free potting compost or a specific amphibian substrate to a large fish tank. Pieces of bark or plastic toad houses form hiding places, which are essential for toads to feel secure.

    • 2

      Position the tank in a quiet location out of direct sunlight. Place a reptile heat mat underneath one end of the tank, if the tank is in a room where the temperature drops to below 70 degrees. Adjust the thermostat so the hottest part of the tank is about 80 degrees during the day and about 10 degrees cooler at night.

    • 3

      Fill a roughly textured, ceramic dish with dechlorinated water. Dishes with sloping sides make it easier for your toad to climb in and out of the dish. Suitable dishes are available from exotic pet supply stores. Replace the water daily. If you are using a heat mat, place the water dish at the opposite end of the tank.

    • 4

      Feed your toad on live invertebrate food such as crickets and roaches two or three times a week. Dust the food with a calcium and vitamin supplement for amphibians as per the instructions.

    • 5

      Remove any feces daily and clean the tank once a month. Place the toad in a pet carrier or box, dispose of the substrate, wipe the tank down with hot water and dishwashing liquid, rinse thoroughly, dry with paper towels, add new substrate and replace the accessories.