The Family Bufonidae comprises the true toads, a widespread group of amphibians found on every continent except Australia and Antarctica. Bufonids are generally robust, terrestrial frogs with short legs, dry warty skin, and parotoid glands behind the eyes that secrete toxins for defense. They typically have direct development from eggs to tadpoles in water, and many species are adaptable to diverse habitats, from forests to deserts. Bufonids play important ecological roles as insect predators, helping control pest populations, and their toxins have been studied for medicinal and biochemical applications.