Wildlife

Natterjack Toad: Rare Coastal Specialist

The natterjack toad is one of Britains rarest amphibians restricted to coastal dunes and inland heaths.

Key Facts

Natterjack toads are restricted to around 60 sites in Britain mainly coastal dunes
They have a distinctive yellow stripe down the back and the loudest call of any British amphibian
Natterjacks run rather than hop and are most active at night
They breed in shallow warm pools that can dry out before tadpoles metamorphose
UK population has declined from historical range by over 75 percent

Welfare Considerations

Natterjack toads face severe welfare threats from loss of coastal dune habitat through development and natural succession. Breeding pool management is critical as pools must be warm and shallow enough for rapid tadpole development but not dry out too quickly. Grazing management that maintains open sandy areas is essential. Illegal collection has affected some sites. Sea level rise threatens low-lying coastal breeding sites.

What You Can Do

Support Natural England and Wildlife Trust natterjack management on protected sites
Respect access restrictions around known natterjack breeding pools
Volunteer with conservation organisations managing natterjack habitat
Donate to conservation programmes restoring coastal dune habitats
Report any suspected illegal collection of natterjacks to police wildlife officers