Parotid

This article describes the ear glands of the amphibians, see also parotid gland (parotid, plural parotid)

Ear glands of the Colorado toad ( Incilius alvarius )

As parotid glands - also Parotoiden , Parotoiddrüsen or ear glands - is called paired beads behind the eyes of some amphibian species , especially in the Real toads , but also some tailed amphibians (such as the Alps and the fire salamander ) and other taxa . Various toxins ( alkaloids ) are produced in these glandular complexes , which serve both to ward off predators and to protect against skin parasites (ectoparasites) (compare for example: cane toad ).