Wildlife

Natterjack Toad Welfare in Coastal Dunes and Heathland

The natterjack toad is Britain's rarest amphibian, found at a handful of coastal dune and heath sites, requiring shallow warm pools for breeding.

Key Facts

UK population at around 50 sites, mostly coastal dune systems
Characteristic yellow dorsal stripe distinguishes them from common toads
Males produce loud nocturnal chorus during breeding season
Requires shallow warm ephemeral pools that dry in summer to prevent fish predation
Listed as Schedule 5 species under Wildlife and Countryside Act

Welfare Considerations

Loss of shallow warm ephemeral pools through scrub invasion and dune stabilisation removes breeding habitat. Fish introduction to breeding pools causes complete population collapse. Climate-driven rainfall changes affect pool availability during the breeding season. Very small population at each site makes local extinction events significant.

What You Can Do

Support National Trust and RSPB coastal dune management
Donate to Amphibian and Reptile Conservation natterjack toad projects
Volunteer for natterjack toad population monitoring
Never introduce fish to ponds in natterjack toad areas