Epidalea calamita (Laurenti, 1768)

Basic Species Information

The natterjack toad, scientifically named Epidalea calamita, is a toad species native to sandy and heathland areas of Europe, including the United Kingdom.

Adult Size

Adult natterjack toads measure 60–70 mm (2.4–2.8 in) in length.

Distinguishing Physical Features

They can be distinguished from common toads by a yellow stripe running down the middle of the back, and parallel paratoid glands.

Movement Trait

Their relatively short legs give them a unique walking gait, which is different from the hopping movement used by many other toad species.

Male Mating Adaptation

Male natterjack toads have a single vocal sac under the chin that amplifies their very loud, distinct mating call.

Geographic Range

Overall Distribution

Natterjack toad populations are found across 17 European countries.

United Kingdom Habitat

In the United Kingdom, the species is now almost entirely restricted to coastal sites.

Irish Population

It is the only toad species native to Ireland. In Ireland, it occurs naturally in County Kerry, specifically on the Dingle Peninsula and at Derrynane, and was introduced to a dune site in County Wexford.

Mainland European Habitat

In mainland Europe, especially in the southern portion of its range, the natterjack toad lives inland across a variety of habitats.

Breeding and Life Cycle

Spawning Period and Egg Laying

Natterjack toads spawn between late April and July, laying their eggs in strings inside shallow, warm pools.

Mating Call Function

Since natterjack toad populations are often small, their loud mating calls are critical to help individuals of opposite sexes find one another.

Spawning Pool Requirements

This species will only spawn in pools with a very gently sloping bottom, and tolerates only sparse vegetation on pool banks and within the water.

Tadpole Survival Risk

These pools are often temporary, so tadpoles sometimes die when the pools dry out completely.

Risk Mitigation Strategy

The natterjack toad offsets this risk by mating across an extended period each summer.

Juvenile Age Range

As a result, by September, juvenile natterjack toads can range in age from one to three months.

Repeat Spawning Behavior

Early breeding individuals rarely breed a second time later in the same season, though some females do spawn twice in a single year.