Blomberg’s Toad – Colombian Giant Toad

Blomberg’s Toad Overview

Blomberg’s toad, also known as the Colombian giant toad, is one of the largest toad species in the world. It belongs to the family Bufonidae and is native to the rainforests of western Colombia and northwestern Ecuador.

Physical Characteristics

• Size: Males reach about 15 cm in snout–to–vent length; females up to 17 cm.

• Lifespan: In captivity, they can live up to 28 years, with an average of 10 years.

• Build: Stocky and robust with a powerful appearance.

Habitat and Distribution

• Inhabits lowland and premontane rainforests, especially near streams.

• Found at elevations of 200–650 meters.

• Geographic range includes Chocó, Valle del Cauca, Cauca, and Nariño in Colombia and Carchi, Esmeraldas, and Imbabura in Ecuador.

Reproduction

• Highly fecund: Females lay between 15,000 and 80,000 eggs per clutch.

• Eggs are around 1 mm in diameter.

• Breeding occurs in both temporary and permanent pools.

Toxicity

• Secretes bufotoxins through the skin, which can deter predators and pose risks to other animals and humans if ingested or absorbed.

Conservation Status

• Listed as Near Threatened due to:

  • Habitat loss (deforestation and pollution)

  • Collection for the pet trade

Captive Breeding

• Successfully bred in captivity by organizations like Wikiri Selva Viva in Ecuador.

• Captive breeding helps with conservation efforts and reduces pressure on wild populations.