The national parks in the American Southwest, like Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument and Saguaro National Park, are havens for unique desert wildlife and incredible cacti landscapes. But amid all that natural beauty lives a creature that’s caught the attention of the National Park Service (NPS) for a rather unusual reason: the Sonoran Desert Toad a.k.a. the Colorado River Toad. These hefty amphibians might look harmless, but the NPS has issued a cheeky yet serious warning against giving them a taste tes
The Sonoran desert toad – looks tempting, but keep your tongue to yourself!
You see, the toad secretes a potent toxin from glands behind its eyes when it feels threatened. This substance contains bufotenine and 5-MeO-DMT, which are powerful hallucinogens. While some folks might seek it out for a mind-altering experience (a practice that’s been around since ancient times and even featured in modern psychedelics circles), the NPS is quick to point out that it’s not just illegal in parks—it’s downright dangerous. Ingesting the toxin can lead to severe illness, including nausea, seizures, or worse, especially if you’re not prepared for the effects.
Iamge via flickr by Raquel Baranow
In a humorous Facebook post that went viral, the NPS put it plainly: “As tasty as it might look, you should refrain from licking the Sonoran desert toad.” They added some puns for good measure, calling it “toad-ally terrifying” and “ribbiting late-night content,” but the message is clear—leave the wildlife alone. The toxin isn’t just a risk if you lick the toad; even handling it and then touching your mouth or eyes can cause problems. And let’s not forget about pets: dogs have been known to get sick or even die from investigating these toads too closely.
You Are Entering Toad Territory
From the NPS guidelines on wildlife safety in desert parks:
- Observe wildlife from a safe distance. Do not approach, touch, or harass animals, including toads.
- The Sonoran desert toad secretes a potent toxin that can make people sick if they touch it or get the poison in their mouth.
- Refrain from licking or ingesting any part of the toad. The hallucinogenic effects are not worth the health risks, which can include severe poisoning.
- Keep pets on leashes and away from water sources where toads congregate, especially after rains when they’re more active.
- If you encounter a toad, admire it from afar and report any unusual wildlife behavior to park rangers.
- Remember, national parks are protected areas—disturbing wildlife can result in fines, and the NPS is not responsible for any self-inflicted “adventures” gone wrong.
These toads are most active during the monsoon season in summer, emerging after heavy rains to breed in temporary pools. They’re one of the largest toads in North America, growing up to 7 inches long, with olive-green skin and distinctive white warts. Fascinating creatures, sure, but best enjoyed with your eyes, not your tongue.
If you’re heading to the Sonoran Desert parks for some stargazing or cactus spotting, pack your sense of wonder—and leave the experimental licks at home. Nature’s full of surprises, but this one’s better left untouched.
