Sometimes the common names that taxonomists place on animals can be a bit misleading.
For example, the name Common Snapping Turtle insinuates that species is, well, common when the opposite is more accurate. Or the name Western Cottonmouth suggests that species can be seen in the “west” when in actuality, its natural range barely extends into the Hill Country of Texas. But at times, the animal being classified by a common name does fit the description, and one species of amphibian whose natural range barely extends into this state is a good example of such.
The Giant Toad ( Rhinella horribilis) is one of 10 species of “true” toads that occur naturally in Texas. Of those 10 species, it has the second smallest range; only the endangered Houston Toad has a more restricted range.
