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Monday, June 30, 2008

Horny (Horned) Toad


In Texas, where I live, there used to be lots of Horny Toads. They are not frogs or toads, but are actually lizards. They don't live in Gilmer any more, but if you're lucky, maybe you will find one in the desert. Some live in California and eat grasshoppers, insects, and any other kind of bug. They are becoming endangered because of: fireants and harvester ants eating them; people using too many pesticides which kill horny toads and their food sources; and the destruction of the natural habitat.


When I went to Fort Davis in West Texas, the park rangers told me that if I found a horny toad to leave it alone because they are trying to increase the population in that area.


Horny toads can defend themselves in a crazy way. They can shoot blood from their eyes up to 3 feet! I think I would leave them alone just because of that!


I am glad that people are protecting this species.

2 comments:

Uncle Marc said...

Hi Matthew!

I still really like your blog and all your updates on animals. Do you know that the Alligator Gar is one of my favorite East Texas Fish?

Go to:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Alligator_gar.jpg

and see how big they can get.

The Animal Kid said...

That was a huge alligator gar! I mean, HUGE! What if I caught one that big by fishing pole? It would be bigger than me!
Love you Uncle Marc,
Matthew