I Am Toad, photo by DavidGuthrie.

The Michigan DNR Frog & Toad page answers the question “How can you tell a frog from a toad?” saying:

It’s been said that a toad is just a lumpy frog! Toads do have thicker, more warty skins compared to the smoother skin of most frogs. Toads are adapted for drier conditions than frogs, though they spend much of their time burrowed into moist soil during times when the air is drier. Toads have shorter hind legs than frogs, comparatively speaking, and move in short hops or simply walk instead of making long leaps.

They say that Michigan has two species of “true” toads, the American Toad and Fowler’s Toad. This little guy is an Eastern American Toad (Bufo americanus) and you can read more about them on Michigan in Pictures. If you’re in a friendly mood, consider building a toad house!

Check this out bigger and in David’s Spring slideshow.