On December 26, American Toad #18-3152 was admitted to the Center from Albemarle County. The toad was observed in the road, bleeding and unable to hop; the rescuer initially thought she had been hit by a car.
The veterinary team examined the toad but found no injuries or signs of trauma that would be consistent with being hit by a car. However, two small puncture wounds on the toad’s face indicate she was possibly attacked by a predator and managed to escape. It’s unusual to find toads active during cold winter days, but a predator attack could explain why she was awake. Frogs and toads in Virginia enter brumation – a type of hibernation specific to amphibians and reptiles. The toad’s brumation was possibly interrupted by an attack.
Because they typically brumate, reptiles and amphibians cannot be released in the winter; state regulations indicate that amphibian patients cannot be released before May 1, meaning American Toad #18-3152 will remain at the Center through the winter.
The Center does not have the facilities to replicate conditions for brumation in reptile and amphibian patients; therefore, this toad will remain active during the winter and the staff will monitor her behavior and keep her well-fed until release in the spring.
The toad’s wounds have healed and she is eating well; she’s gained 12 grams since admission and now weighs 50 grams.