The Mexican Spadefoot is a classic monsoon breeder of the desert Southwest. After summer rains form temporary pools, thousands emerge simultaneously to breed. Tadpoles develop in a race against evaporation, metamorphosing in as little as two weeks.
Habitat
Desert grasslands and scrublands of the Southwest, emerging after heavy rains
Diet
Insects and other invertebrates
How common
Common
Best time to see a Mexican Spadefoot
The best time to see a Mexican Spadefoot is July–August, when about 67% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 1,970 research-grade iNaturalist observations.
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Recent Mexican Spadefoot sightings near you
Live, research-grade observations from iNaturalist. Allow location to center the map on you.
Spotted a Mexican Spadefoot?
Point Huck at any plant, bird, or animal and know for sure - plus a live map of where it is being spotted near you.
5,300+species
63national parks
50states
More reptiles & amphibians
Mexican Tiger Salamander
Ambystoma velasci
Mexican Tree Frog
Smilisca baudinii
Mexican West Coast Boa Constrictor
Boa sigma
Mexican White-lipped Frog
Leptodactylus fragilis
Middle American Ameiva
Holcosus festivus
Milk Frog
Trachycephalus macrotis
Milk Snake
Lampropeltis triangulum
Mink Frog
Lithobates septentrionalis