There are six species in this family. European spadefoot toads are found in Europe, western Asia, and northwestern Africa.

Spadefoot toads get their name from the hard, sharp, bony “spade” on their hind feet. They use this spade to dig backwards into sandy soil to create burrows.

European spadefoot toads have round, stocky bodies; short, rounded snouts; large, bulging eyes; and smooth skin. They are usually a dull gray or brown.