This little toad is rarely more than 5cm, prominent eyes, with vertical pupils, appearing overdeveloped in comparison to the size of its head which has a rounded nose. The body is somewhat slim, dark or olive grey marked with bright green spots, the smooth back has warts which sometimes form irregular lines. Long digits front and rear, the rear being webbed but only at the base.

It is present all over France, preferring damp habitats ditches, wetlands and in the areas around ponds, rivers etc. Outside of the reproduction period it is terrestrial and nocturnal, spending the day under a rock, in a stone wall or a hole in the ground. Extremely agile it hops away rapidly when disturbed and can climb perfectly smooth surfaces with the aid of its abdomen. It does not appear to hibernate.

Reproduction takes place from March until October depending on latitude, in the south very late coupling is observed. Up to 1500 eggs are laid in bunches or strings attached to aquatic plants.

It is considered to be endangered in the north of France (and some other Countries) and there are large regions where it is absent. Listed nationally Art.1. Liste rouge Nationale Vulnerable. Berne convention. Annexe 3.