The natterjack toad (Epidalea calamita) is the UK rarest native amphibian, restricted to around 60 sites on sand dunes and heathlands. Its survival depends on active conservation and habitat management.
Natterjack toads face welfare threats from habitat fragmentation, pool loss, and invasive predators such as mink and American signal crayfish. Tadpoles in drying pools face severe thermal stress and mortality. The species is particularly vulnerable because its specialised habitat requirements mean it cannot easily move to alternative sites. Conservation translocation — moving eggs or adults to restored habitats — carries welfare risks including stress during handling, transport mortality, and adjustment to novel environments. Best practice guidelines from Natural England stress minimising handling time and following strict biosecurity to prevent disease spread.