Several days ago I put my toad tub out in the front yard under the maple tree so I could spray the citrus trees in the porch garden for ants and scale, and not injure the toads with the insecticide. The insect treatment was successful. I thought maybe I would leave the toads out there under the tree, but then I noticed they didn't come out and walk around or even go soak in their water bowl, or do much except bury themselves and stay hidden. So I brought the toad tub back in to the porch garden this afternoon, and right away the toads began being very active again, hunting crickets and soaking in their water bowl, making their little chirp calls and in general having a good time. I have my laptop out here by the toad tub, so I can watch them, and they can see me as well. They actually seem to be reassured by my presence. They do associate me with food, but I am quite surprised they also seem to associate me with safety. No raccoons or skunks can scare them in this fenced porch garden haven, unlike under the maple tree.

and

with the varmint proof lid in place. They were safe under the maple tree but obviously they did not think so!

Sorry for old pictures; will take some new ones tomorrow when it is better light.

Also, I think I have 7 females and 3 males, as the three that may be males make a definite release chirp while the other 7 don't. Maybe next year this will be sorted out better should they decide to breed. I can't imagine they would want to breed in the water bowl, though. I will have to think of a better accomodation for breeding.