[2][3] It is endemic to the Zagros Mountains in Iran and occurs at an altitude of 350–1,300 m (1,150–4,270 ft), most often near rocky outcrops or freshwater ponds, which it also uses for breeding.

Some local populations may be threatened by habitat loss from human activities or drought.

[4][5] It resembles its close relative B. surdus (Luristan (earless) toad).

Both are relatively small, dull-coloured and with no or a tiny tympanum.

Unlike most Bufotes species, the adults never have large and conspicuous green spots to the upperpart of their body.