Did you know that the horned toad is not actually a toad? It is actually a "short horned lizard", but is often mistaken for a toad because of it's squat, flattened shape and a short, blunt snout.
To avoid being eaten, short-horned lizards can inflate their bodies up to twice their size, resembling a spiny balloon. And if this doesn't work, some species can even shoot blood from their eyes!
"The ominous squirting blood emanates from ducts in the corners of their eyes and can travel a distance of up to three feet. It's meant to confuse would-be predators, but also contains a chemical that is noxious to dogs, wolves and coyotes."(*courtesy of national geographic. i ♥ NG)
Destruction of their native habitat, efforts to eradicate ants - their staple food - and the pet trade have all contributed to a decline in their population.
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Yeah, I know. I totally just made your day by giving you random information that you will never need to know. :)
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