UK Wildlife

Natterjack Toad Conservation

The natterjack toad is Britain's rarest amphibian, restricted to a small number of coastal dune and heathland sites, requiring specialist conservation management of open sandy habitats.

Key Facts

UK natterjack toad population restricted to around 60 sites, mainly coastal dunes and Merseyside
Loud chorus of males giving the natterjack its local name 'screaming toad'
Requires open sandy areas with shallow, warm, ephemeral pools for breeding
Licensed conservation work including pool creation and habitat management is essential
Legal protection under Schedule 5 of Wildlife and Countryside Act

Welfare Considerations

Natterjack toad conservation requires active habitat management - without intervention, succession to scrub and vegetation eliminates suitable breeding habitat. Each surviving population is precious. The welfare of a critically rare species extends beyond individual animals to population viability.

What You Can Do

Support Wildlife Trust natterjack toad conservation at managed sites
Visit natterjack toad sites through organized guided events that minimise disturbance
Advocate for coastal dune and heathland protection where natterjacks breed