Rare toads need your help

RESIDENTS along the Solway coast are being asked to help protect Scotland’s rarest amphibian.

The natterjack toad is only found in a few locations across Scotland, all on the Solway.

Numbers have declined dramatically in recent years, largely due to habitat loss caused by sea level rise, coastal erosion, agricultural intensification, urban expansion and commercial forestry.

The natterjack breeding habitat – shallow, seasonal pools found near the coast - is especially susceptible to extreme weather events such as prolonged periods of drought or severe winter storms, which are becoming more frequent due to climate change.

It is a target species for ‘Species on the Edge’, a partnership programme of NatureScot.

Now Wildlife charity Amphibian and Reptile Conservation (ARC) and six other nature charities, all working together to fight the decline, Species on the Edge project officer for the Solway Coast Liam Templeton said: “The natterjack toad is truly a ‘species on the edge’ - in more than one sense. Here in Scotland the natterjack is at the very edge of its range; the Solway Coast is the most northerly place on earth you’ll find it. And with its coastal habitat now being at almost constant risk, whether from storms, droughts, or sea level rise, it’s future in Scotland is teetering on the brink.

“In order to ensure the survival of the natterjack toad on the Solway coast, it’s vital we understand how populations are faring. Local residents have a brilliant opportunity to help by reporting any natterjack calls they hear – a simple action that could make a real difference to the future of this rare and much-loved species.”

As part of the conservation activity, ARC is asking Solway locals to listen out for and report if they hear the natterjack toad. These reports will help ARC assess the impact of ongoing conservation activity and help inform future efforts to support this struggling species.

Male natterjack toads call to attract a mate during the breeding season, which usually starts in April and can run until July. They have a loud, rasping call which can be heard up to one kilometre away. The toads are most active on warm evenings following periods of heavy rain.

Residents can report natterjacks by sending the date, time and location of where the toad was heard, and, if possible, an audio recording, to [email protected].