Dire Toad (3.5e Monster)

Dire Toad
Dire toads are an extremely dangerous monster found in swamps. They wait in murky waters and when a worthy meal comes within range, they leap out and strike.

Most dire toads are about the size of a dwarf in height, although they are much wider and are basically a massive mouth with strong jumping legs. Their color varies from browns and greens to some more exotic tropical species which have bright reds and oranges. In general, dire toads have spines along their back, which act as little needles to inject doses of their hallucinogenic poisons. And, although an established hero might be able to shrug off these poisons after a few moments, regular folk have been known to be driven completely insane after a single exposure.

Strategies and Tactics
A dire toad will lie in wait, hiding in the marshes until their prey comes near. When a vulnerable target is within 150 ft., they will leap forward, combining their incredible hop and sticky tongue to attempt to swallow their target. If they can, they will try to escape with a swallowed creature, to digest it underwater in the marshes.

Treasure
Dire toad poison is a totally sweet trip. It also makes a pretty good weapon. Dire toad poison has the effects as noted above (ingested or injury, DC 14, confusion for 1 round, dazzling afterwards). A single dire toad has 2 doses worth of poison, which is enough for a fun night.

Dire toad venom is valued at 150 gp on the open market.

&rarr; Bestiary