Later, the Arroyo Toad tadpoles become tan as opposed to the darker color of the Western Toad larvae . The tadpoles are also more fusiform in shape as opposed to the globose shape of the Western Toad tadpoles. Western Toad tadpoles are communal, occurring in aggregates whereas Arroyo Toad tadpoles distribute themselves evenly within the pools they inhabit. After metamorphosis , toadlets appear as miniature adults with the exception of having yellow spots. This toad prefers riparian habitats with sandy streambeds with cottonwood, sycamore, and willow trees.
Some populations occur in streams within coniferous forests.
The stream setting usually has adjacent shallow pools where the toad may sit in the water while partially exposed above. Natural History These toads are most active during late winter and early spring after seasonal rains. Early in their activity season, toads forage to prepare for breeding. Later, males disperse along the margins of streams and initiate calling to attract females. Little is known about their habits outside of their breeding season.