Introduction: Meet the Natterjack Toad

The Natterjack toad (Epidalea calamita) is a rare and fascinating amphibian species that belongs to the family Bufonidae. It is a small-sized toad that is native to Europe, specifically found in the coastal areas of the British Isles, France, Spain, and Portugal. The Natterjack toad is a highly protected species and considered as a priority species for conservation by the European Union due to its declining population.

Habitat and Distribution of Natterjacks

Natterjacks are found in a variety of habitats, including sand dunes, heathlands, and coastal grasslands. They prefer habitats with sandy soils as they are good burrowers and can dig their own burrows to escape the heat or cold. They are mostly active during the night, and during the day, they stay in their burrows. Natterjacks are distributed along the coastal regions of Europe, from the southwestern parts of the British Isles to the northern parts of Spain and Portugal.

Physical Characteristics of Natterjacks

The Natterjack toad has a distinctive appearance, with a yellow stripe running down its back, and warts on its skin that are larger than those of other toad species. It has a squat body and short legs, ideal for burrowing. An adult Natterjack toad can grow up to 70 mm in length, making it smaller than the common toad species. The color of the toad varies from grey to greenish-brown, depending on the color of the soil in their habitat.

Natterjack Toad’s Unique Call

The Natterjack toad has a distinctive call, which is louder and more high-pitched than that of other toad species. The male Natterjack toad produces a trilling call during the breeding season, which can be heard up to 1 km away. The call is used to attract females and to defend their territory against other males. The call is unique to each individual Natterjack toad, and this helps them to identify their mates.

Reproduction and Life Cycle of Natterjacks

Natterjacks breed in shallow pools or ponds during the spring and early summer. The female Natterjack toad lays eggs in strings that can contain up to 5,000 eggs. The eggs hatch into tadpoles, which take around 12 weeks to metamorphose into adult toads. Natterjacks can live up to 10 years in the wild, and they reach sexual maturity at around 2-3 years of age.

Natterjack’s Diet and Predators

Natterjacks are carnivorous and feed on insects, spiders, snails, and other small invertebrates. They are known to consume their own tadpoles, which is a unique behavior among toad species. They have several predators, including birds, reptiles, and mammals. The common buzzard, the grass snake, and the hedgehog are some of the predators that prey on Natterjack toads.

Importance of Natterjacks in Ecosystem

Natterjacks play an important role in the ecosystem as they help to control insect populations, and they are preyed upon by other animals, which maintains a balance in the food chain. They are also an indicator species, meaning that their presence or absence can indicate the health of an ecosystem.

Conservation Efforts for Natterjacks

Natterjacks are a highly protected species, and their conservation is a priority for the European Union. Several conservation efforts have been made to protect the species, including habitat restoration, relocation of toads, and captive breeding programs. The Natterjack toad is listed as a protected species under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 in the UK.

Threats to Natterjack’s Survival

Natterjacks face several threats to their survival, including habitat loss due to urbanization, agriculture, and tourism. Pollution, climate change, and invasive species are also a threat to Natterjacks. The decline in the population of Natterjacks has been alarming over the years, and urgent conservation efforts are required to save this species from extinction.

Natterjacks and Climate Change

Climate change is a significant threat to Natterjacks, as it alters the temperature and rainfall patterns in their habitat. Changes in temperature can affect the breeding season of Natterjacks, and changes in rainfall patterns can reduce the availability of suitable breeding sites. The rising sea level due to climate change can also lead to the loss of coastal habitats, which are important for Natterjacks.

Myths and Folklore around Natterjacks

In folklore, Natterjacks have been viewed as a symbol of good luck and prosperity. They were also believed to have medicinal properties and were used in traditional medicine to cure various ailments. In some cultures, the Natterjack toad was considered a sacred animal and was associated with the god of fertility.

Conclusion: Natterjacks – A Rarity Worth Protecting

The Natterjack toad is a rare and fascinating species that plays an important role in the ecosystem. However, its population has been declining over the years, and urgent conservation efforts are required to save this species from extinction. The Natterjack toad is a unique and valuable part of our natural heritage, and its protection is essential to maintain a healthy and balanced environment for future generations.