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Help save Scotland's loudest amphibian
16 Apr
Summary
- Scotland's only natterjack toads need public help to be monitored.
- The rare natterjack toad is the UK's loudest amphibian.
- Habitat loss threatens the survival of these toads.
Efforts are underway to safeguard Scotland's sole colonies of the rare natterjack toad, situated along the Solway Coast. The public is being asked to assist conservation charities by listening for and potentially recording the distinctive calls of this amphibian. This information is crucial for understanding population health and ensuring the species' future.
The natterjack toad, the UK's loudest amphibian, calls to attract mates during its breeding season, which usually spans from April to July. These calls can be heard up to a kilometre away, particularly on warm, rainy evenings.
Sadly, natterjack toad populations have drastically decreased due to factors like sea-level rise, coastal erosion, intensive agriculture, and urban expansion. Their breeding grounds are also vulnerable to extreme weather events, exacerbated by climate change.
Conservationists are working through the Species on the Edge programme to boost toad numbers. Project officer Liam Templeton highlighted that the natterjack is 'truly a species on the edge,' facing risks from its northerly range limit and constant threats to its coastal habitat. Public reports of toad calls, including date, time, location, and audio recordings, can be sent to sote@arc-trust.org.
