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RE: Toad Hibernation

tspuckler — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 05:19:12 GMT

Reptiles and amphibians do not eat during hibernation. Some will slow down their feeding habits as daylengths get shorter. This is seen as a sign the animal is getting ready to hibernate. If your toad continues to feed, there is no need to hibernate it.

If you choose to put it in hibernation, you'll need an area that stays above freezing and 50-55 degrees. Sometimes a garage will work for this, but it depends on the temperature. Put the toad in a plastic box (like a sweaterbox) with airholes. There should be a few inches of damp dirt for the toad to burrow in, as well as a layer of leaves.

The toad will dig into the substrate and remain inactive throughout the winter months. It is important to monitor the humidity in the box, so the amphibian does not dry out.

When the weather gets warmer, you can bring your toad out of hibernation and maintain it as usual.

I have never heard of toads from the United States hibernating in groups - so I don't think that's necessary.

Red-spotted Toad that I found in Las Vegas area:

RE: Toad Hibernation

herpsrule13 — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 17:57:03 GMT

How many do you have? they like to hibernate together

most people will put their toads/frog sin the fridge....

depending upon the temperature they will hibernate anywhere late march or early april.

you need to fatten him/her up for hibernating

Toad Hibernation

BrandonM — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 22:29:13 GMT

This will be my first winter having my American toad. And i know nothing about their hibernation behavior and can't find anything about it on the web. Just wondering stuff like when he will start hibernating, how can i tell when he is and also how long he will do it for. And how his diet should change during this period. thank you in advance.