The characteristics used to distinguish this species from other species of toads immediately are their bright yellow eyes with elliptical pupils (like cat eyes) and the dark spade-shaped hind foot, which is used for digging. Their skin is smoother and moister than other toads and is dotted with tiny warts. This species varies in coloration from tan or yellowish to dark brown, without bold spots. They usually have two vertical light lines running from the back of their eyes down their dorsum, forming an hourglass shape. The lines are generally more brilliant yellow in males.

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