The brightly colored, highly toxic amphibians known as “poison dart frogs” are native exclusively to the tropical rainforests of Central and South America and are not found in Washington State. While Washington lacks these true dart frogs, it hosts several native amphibians capable of producing defensive poisons. The primary concern among the state’s true frogs and toads (Anurans) is the Western Toad.
The Western Toad (Anaxyrus boreas) and Woodhouse’s Toad (Anaxyrus woodhousii) possess enlarged parotoid glands located behind their eyes. When threatened, they secrete a milky substance containing bufotoxins. These compounds, which include cardiac glycosides and psychoactive tryptamines, are designed to deter predators and act immediately upon contact with mucous membranes.
For humans, exposure to toad toxins is generally limited to skin irritation unless the substance is ingested or rubbed into the eyes. The risk is significantly higher for pets, especially dogs, who may mouth or bite the toad. A dog exposed to bufotoxins will rapidly exhibit symptoms such as excessive drooling, vomiting, and loss of coordination. Although non-lethal in native Washington species, the toxin can affect the cardiovascular and nervous systems, requiring immediate veterinary attention in severe cases.
The Real Danger: Washington’s Most Toxic Amphibian
The most potent amphibian toxin risk in Washington State comes from the Rough-skinned Newt (Taricha granulosa). This newt is widespread across the western part of the state and is recognizable by its dark brown or black, granular skin and a contrasting bright orange or yellow underside. The newt’s skin, internal organs, and even its eggs contain Tetrodotoxin (TTX), a powerful neurotoxin.
Tetrodotoxin is the same compound found in pufferfish, making it one of the most potent non-protein toxins in nature, with no known antidote. The newt uses this toxin as a passive defense, displaying its bright coloring in a posture known as the unken reflex to warn potential predators. TTX works by blocking sodium channels in nerve and muscle cell membranes, halting the transmission of electrical signals. This quickly leads to muscle weakness and paralysis.
Ingestion of a Rough-skinned Newt can be fatal to humans and pets, with symptoms progressing rapidly from tingling and numbness around the mouth to full-body paralysis. Death is typically caused by respiratory failure, as the toxin paralyzes the diaphragm and other breathing muscles. Even a small amount of newt toxin, such as from one newt body, can carry enough TTX to be lethal.
Safe Encounters and Handling Guidelines
The general rule for interacting with any wild amphibian is to observe without touching, protecting both the animal and yourself. Amphibian skin is delicate and highly permeable, meaning chemicals like lotions or insect repellent on human hands can be harmful to them. Conversely, many amphibians, including those in Washington, secrete substances that can be irritants or toxins.
You should always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water immediately after touching any wild frog, toad, or newt. This practice is necessary for toxin prevention and because amphibians can carry bacteria like Salmonella on their skin. Never ingest any part of a wild amphibian, as ingestion is the primary route for life-threatening Tetrodotoxin exposure from the Rough-skinned Newt.
It is particularly important to keep household pets away from toads and newts, especially in the evening when these animals are most active. If your pet encounters one, immediately flush its mouth with copious amounts of water, ensuring the pet’s head is pointed down to prevent swallowing or inhaling the toxin-laced water. If a pet shows severe symptoms, such as foaming, seizures, or collapse, contact a veterinary emergency center immediately.