Observation and Conservation of a Relict Population of the Natterjack Toad Bufo calamita (LAURENTI) in Southern England over the Period 1972-1981

Abstract

A relict population of natterjack toads (Bufo calamita) on heathland in southern England has been studied over a ten year period. During this time the numbers of adults have not fluctuated significantly although there has been recruitment only in the latter five years. pH, inorganic ions and organic components of the freshwaters have been studied together with thermal properties, tadpole growth rates and abundance of potential predators. Conservation measures and their success so far are also described.