Parents probably tell this one to stop clothes from getting muddied. You can’t get warts from any amphibian, including toads and frogs. The myth likely started because some toads have warty-looking glands on their skin that are often there to secrete a protective poison to defend against predators, so they probably should be avoided anyway. Warts are caused by a virus — a human one. Some frogs and toads do secrete toxins that can be hallucinogenic or even fatal, and most may have bacteria and parasites on their skin, so don’t try kissing one. Plus, you could harm them. Best to leave them be.

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