Natterjack Toad
Epidalea calamita
Tap image to enlarge · Wikimedia Commons
Overview
The Sefton Coast holds one of the largest Natterjack Toad populations in the UK — a fact that most visitors don't know. They breed in the shallow, warm dune slack pools at Ainsdale NNR and Birkdale, and on warm spring nights the males' chorus — a remarkably loud, mechanical rattle that carries for a kilometre — fills the dunes. They're smaller than Common Toads, run rather than hop, and have a distinctive yellow line down the back.
At a Glance
| Order | Anura |
| Family | Bufonidae |
| Habitat | Dune slack · Shallow pool · Sandy dune |
| Diet | Beetles, ants, flies, woodlice, small invertebrates |
| UK population | Around 30,000–60,000 adults in the UK — restricted to coastal dunes, Breckland and a few upland sites |
| Sefton Coast | One of the largest UK populations; the Sefton Coast holds several hundred breeding females across Ainsdale NNR and Birkdale |
| Conservation | UK Red List |
Where to See It
Ainsdale NNR and Birkdale green beach dune slacks — one of the UK's most important populations. Red-light torches only to avoid disturbing them.
Identification
Smaller than Common Toad. Yellow stripe down centre of back — distinctive. Runs rather than hops. Warty brown skin. Short hind legs.
Viewing & Photography Tips
Visit Ainsdale NNR on a warm evening (above 10°C) in April or May. You'll hear the chorus before you get close. Use red-light torches only — white light disturbs them. Check shallow slack pools.
Conservation Status
UK Red List
This species is of serious conservation concern in the UK. Its presence on the Sefton Coast is important for local and national monitoring and habitat management.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the best place to hear Natterjack Toads on the Sefton Coast?
Ainsdale NNR is the most accessible site. Visit on a warm, calm evening in April or May (air temperature above 10°C) and walk toward the dune slacks. The male's call — a loud, mechanical churring rattle — carries up to a kilometre and is heard before the toad is seen. Use a red torch only.
How is the Natterjack Toad different from a Common Toad?
Natterjacks are smaller and have shorter hind legs — they run rather than hop. The yellow stripe down the centre of the back is the key identification feature. Their call is also very different: a loud, repetitive churring rattle rather than Common Toad's quieter calls. They breed in warm, shallow pools rather than deeper water.
Why is the Sefton Coast important for Natterjack Toads?
The Sefton Coast holds one of the UK's largest Natterjack Toad populations in the dune slack system at Ainsdale NNR and Birkdale. The warm, shallow slack pools are ideal breeding habitat. Natural England's management of the dune system specifically includes maintaining water levels in slacks to support breeding.
Plan your visit to the Sefton Coast
Marshside RSPB, Formby pinewoods, Ainsdale NNR — practical guides to getting there, what to bring, and the best spots for each season.