Anaxyrus terrestris, commonly known as the Southern Toad, is native to the southeastern United States. Its geographical distribution includes the coastal plains extending from southeastern Virginia through Florida and west to eastern Louisiana.

The Southern Toad typically inhabits environments such as sandy soils, open pine woodlands, and near bodies of fresh water such as ponds and ditches. It is commonly found in areas with moderate to high humidity and a warm climate. These conditions are typical of the southeastern U.S. region where the toad thrives.

Anaxyrus terrestris occupies a terrestrial ecological niche, utilizing both natural and modified environments. It is well-adapted to life in areas that are frequently disturbed by human activity, such as agricultural lands and suburban areas. The toad plays an important role in the ecosystem as both a predator of small invertebrates and as prey for larger animals.