The Family Pelobatidae consists of the spadefoot toads, a group of fossorial (burrowing) amphibians found in Europe, North Africa, and parts of western Asia. These toads are adapted for life underground, with strong, keratinized spade-like projections on their hind feet that allow them to dig efficiently. Pelobatids are generally nocturnal and emerge after rains to breed in temporary pools, where they lay eggs that develop rapidly to tadpoles. They are insectivorous, feeding primarily on invertebrates, and play an important ecological role in controlling insect populations. Their unique burrowing behavior and explosive breeding cycles distinguish them from other toad families.