Answer: TOAD

Toad is a term often used to refer to a type of amphibian that belongs to the family Bufonidae. In this context, the clue suggests that "Toad" is a classic character found in books by Arnold Lobel. Toad is one of the main characters from Lobel's popular series of children's books called "Frog and Toad," which features endearing stories about the adventures and friendship between a frog and a toad.

Note: The provided meaning of the answer is for the latest New York Times crossword puzzle clue: Wart-covered critter. Explanations are generated by AI and may be inaccurate.