>>I was in Tennessee this last week and came across these toads in the Great Smoky Mountain National Park (nr. Cosby Campground, eastern side of the park). Is it an American Toad? Probably 2-2.5 in. max stretched out. All the ones I saw where this coloration. Heavy forest.
>>Also came across a small, black snake on the road at dusk at the same location (with all the toads I thought I'd see some snakes). It was about 1-1.5 ft long, looked all black. Struck aggressively when I shooed him off the road with my hat. I can't believe I forgot to get a picture. My impression was a small cotton-mouth but I've never seen one and my field guide says they are not in the eastern part of the state. I'm guessing the elevation was about 3'000'.
>>
>>
I live in Southeast Tennessee and I would say that the toad pictured is an American toad. I see quite a few of them every year that are almost solid orange. About the same color as an orange ant hill. You know the kind of rust colored orange I mean?
The little snake you described sounds like a Black Racer (spawn from hell)
Nasty little snakes. They are definitley my least favorite snake.
I would much rather encounter any snake over a Black Racer.
As far as the Water Moccosin/Cottonmouth goes. The TWRA and most books say we don't have them in Southeast Tennessee.
WRONG!!!!! I caught one in a pond next to the shop where I work.
It was what it was. It was a cottonmouth. No question.
I also see them on occaision when fishing.
Granted, most people who see any snake near the water think Cottonmouth and 99% are wrong but I Do know the difference and they ARE here.
-----
Remember, my posts are MY opinion only.
Jimmy (draybar)
