The dorsal surface is variably coloured in shades of grey or brown with a few paler streaks, and is smooth with scattered warts and blister-like ridges.

The parotoid glands are obvious, but no tympani (eardrums) are visible, a fact which helps distinguish this species from the otherwise similar Capensibufo tradouwi.

[1] Breeding takes place at the time of the winter rains when temporary shallow pools form.

The males do not call to attract females, and this may be the only South African species of amphibian that lacks a voice.

The rate of growth of the tadpoles depends on the temperature and availability of food and metamorphosis into juvenile toads may occur about six weeks after hatching.