How does the tympanum size of the Wyoming Toad compare to that of the Western Toad (*Anaxyrus boreas*)?
Answer
The tympanum is typically smaller in the Wyoming Toad
When conducting a careful examination to distinguish *Anaxyrus baxteri* from *Anaxyrus boreas*, the size of the tympanum—the eardrum located posterior to the eye—is another distinguishing metric. Specifically, the tympanum structure is typically smaller in the Wyoming Toad when compared directly to that found on the Western Toad. While this measurement requires close observation and careful examination to confirm, this size differential, when considered alongside the presence of strong cranial crests, adds another layer of diagnostic information to the identification process.
Related Questions
What is the typical snout to vent measurement range for adult Wyoming Toads, *Anaxyrus baxteri*?What structure is considered the most reliable characteristic for differentiating the Wyoming Toad from the Western Toad (*Anaxyrus boreas*)?What term describes the typical background hue ranges for the coloration of the Wyoming Toad?How is the overall body shape of the Wyoming Toad characteristically described?In terms of arrangement, how are the dark, irregular dorsal blotches of *A. baxteri* often aligned?How does the tympanum size of the Wyoming Toad compare to that of the Western Toad (*Anaxyrus boreas*)?What environmental factor can cause the normally warty skin texture of *A. baxteri* to appear temporarily smoother?What combination of features defines the key distinguishing profile used by experts to identify *A. baxteri*?Around what age do the adult morphological features, including the full development of cranial crests, typically become evident in *A. baxteri*?What factor specifically causes identification challenges when trying to distinguish juvenile *A. baxteri* from juvenile Western Toads?