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Froglife’s newsletter - , reptiles & nature news Issue 20 spring/summer 2020

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Plus... Identifying UK : Poems from Creeping : Monitoring tunnels Photo: Craig Mackay contents ‘From the CEO’: Kathy Wormald on the 3. Latest Developments Garden Wildlife Health (GWH) is a collaborative project between the Identifying UK newt 4. Zoological Society of (ZSL), Dear You can enter your sightings onto can be achieved with everyone’s the British Trust for Ornithology Surveying for newts supporters, our App. However please remember support. 6. (BTO), Froglife and the Royal great crested newts are a protected Firstly a huge I hope you enjoy this newsletter as Society for the Protection of Birds species and only someone with eDNA for detecting great crested newts; thank you much as we have enjoyed compiling (RSPB) which aims to monitor the a great crested newt licence can a replacement for traditional survey to everyone it. 8. health of, and identify disease handle them. techniques? who has threats to, British wildlife. Finally thanks to Vicky for designing contributed to We have included in the newsletter this newsletter, she always does us Low impact class licence for great Visit www.gardenwildlifehealth.org this newsletter. We have a great the lovely mural of great crested proud. 12. crested newts to find out more range of informative and interesting newts at Spitalfield and further articles, poems, photos and creativity has been added by one My love for amphibians Kathy Wormald, CEO 14. artwork. It is fantastic to see how of our trustees, Gordon, who has inspirational great created newts submitted poems from one of his 16. Toad - The eye of the beholder are. They certainly bring out the sessions with young people. creativity in people. Poems from Creeping Toad The Froglife Board Thanks goes to all of our supporters, 18. It is the time of year when you will donors, friends, staff, trustees and Chair of Trustees: Inez Smith see great crested newts in . volunteers for all they have done to Newts: latest literature Vice Chair of Trustees: Prof. Roger Downie 20. The males do an amazing mating help us achieve so much. Fifty five Trustees: Frank Clark, Richard Donoyou, Dr. Phil Wheeler, dance to attract females. If you ponds in Sheffield and building on a Reports on three great crested newt Gordon MacLellan, Dr. Silviu Petrovan shine a torch into a at night network of ponds at Muiravonside 22. sites Patrons: Kate Bradbury & Jules Howard with newts you may witness this. Country Park highlights how much CEO: Kathy Wormald Studying the effects of predator cues on 25. great crested newt larvae contact us Froglife Six years of monitoring under-road 1 Loxley, Werrington 26. tunnels for amphibians Peterborough PE4 5BW fe 28. Frogalogue Phone: 01733 602102 ogli Email: [email protected] fr

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Froglife is the campaign title for The Froglife Trust. Registered Charity Number 1093372 (in England & Wales) & SC041854 (in Scotland); Registered Company Number 438714 (in England & Wales). The views expressed in Natterchat are those of the contributors and not necessarily those of Froglife. To advertise in or to sponsor an edition of Natterchat please contact Kathy Wormald at [email protected].

Help us find dragons... Grab your phone, get your wellies, and go out dragon hunting this spring to help us map amphibians and reptiles.

The new version of our free Dragon Finder smartphone app will help you to identify all the different amphibians and reptiles you might spot in the UK. You can also use it to record your sightings, adding to our Living Atlas of where the can be found.

2 3 Palmate newts are slightly smaller than smooth newts, they also have a yellow belly, often with dark E: Identifying UK newt species spots. However, the easiest way to distinguish between the two is by Kathy Wormald, CEO grow their front legs, again different acid water that palmate newts do not have a to and , followed by their and soil In the UK we have three native newt spotted or yellow throat; instead back legs. At this time of year adult as palmate species: smooth (C), palmate (A) and their throat is pink (E). During the newts spend a considerable amount newts can. great crested newts (B,D). All three breeding season males develop a of time in the water hunting for Both species when on land, have a share common features whilst each filament at the tip of their tails and food. However, once the larvae have velvety appearance and are often also have distinctive ones. Shared black webbing on their back feet. absorbed their , they leave the mistaken for . Their colouring features include adults emerging Their preferred is heathland, water as juveniles (or efts). is varying shades of grey or brown from their overwintering sites in moorland and bogland, and shallower Photo: Glenn Upton-Fletcher and both will have a distinctive early spring and heading to ponds Newts spend the autumn/winter ponds in acidic soils. yellow/orange dorsal stripe. In to breed. The males perform an months sheltering under rocks, Great crested newts are the largest F: smooth newts this starts between the elaborate courtship dance before the in compost heaps, under logs and newt species in the UK and have eyes and continues down the body, are laid. Females lay individual fallen leaves. Some will overwinter in been around for approximately 40 whereas in the palmate newt the eggs and wrap each up in a leaf ponds. They don’t hibernate as such, million years. During the breeding stripe starts just below the head and of a pond plant. Depending on local and may take advantage of milder season the males develop a jagged continues the full length of its body weather conditions two to four weeks weather to forage. crest along their backs which has a and tail. later larvae (sometimes called newt Now to their distinctive features. break at the base of the tail with a ) will hatch. During the breeding season male Smooth newt and palmate newts do white flash on the tail. Females take smooth newts develop a wavy crest The larvae have feathery gills around look very similar and are difficult on a ‘bulky’ appearance. Their skin is along their backs. They have a yellow the head, distinguishing them from to tell them apart but here are a black or dark brown and has a rough, or orange belly, usually with black or toad tadpoles. A couple of few tips. Smooth newts are more warty appearance. Their undersides spots/or blotches and their throats months after they hatch they start to widespread and cannot tolerate as are bright orange with irregular black Photo: Dr Silviu Petrovan are spotted. blotches. There are no great crested newts in but they are found G: great crested newt in all other areas of the UK, although A: male palmate newt B: female great crested newt in many areas their distribution is patchy, especially in the north and west. Great crested newts favour larger ponds and they generally do not live with fish. Their eggs (H) are much larger than smooth or palmate newts (I). The eggs are white with light yellow centre surrounded by a jelly capsule. Whereas smooth Photo: Dr Silviu Petrovan and palmate newt eggs are greyish- brown or dirty white but are also surrounded by a transparent jelly. Photo: Dave Kilbey For more information about our UK newts visit www.froglife.org/info- male (left) & female (right) smooth male great crested newt C: D: advice/amphibians-and-reptiles newt

H: great crested I: smooth/palmate newt egg newt egg smooth/palmate newt eft

great crested Photo: Mark Zekhuis Photo: Dave Kilbey newt eft 4 5 As great crested newts are protected You will need a powerful torch. Ideal surveying conditions are air more techniques are used for You will torch from the bank of the temperatures of 5°C or higher, surveying them, and can only be pond, move slowly around the pond little or no wind, dry with water carried out by someone with a great and torch approximately every two temperature ideally 10°C or more. crested newt licence. If great crested metres. Shine the torch into the Happy surveying and please do enter newts are suspected to be present water, take time to get your ‘eye’ into your data onto the Froglife App at on a site, a Natural England licence it, moving out from the bank and back it helps us a lot with our work, and is required before carrying out any again. your data will help to inform wider surveying techniques. Daytime surveys are done in April- conservation as all our data is In daylight simply walk around June to find eggs and night-time submitted to the National Biodiversity the pond edge and surrounding torching between March-June for Network database. terrestrial habitat and record newts adults and July-September for larvae http://www.froglife.org/dragonfinder/ and newt efts seen in the water hatched that year. These timings app/ and under logs, large stones etc. will vary depending on weather Remember newts can travel several conditions and locations. hundred metres away from the pond, so look further afield. You can also look for folded leaves which will indicate egg laying. You can look inside a folded leaf to determine its size and colour but do not disturb too many, and if you come across great crested newt eggs stop immediately as these are protected. Surveying for newts If your pond has little suitable vegetation for egg laying or has by Kathy Wormald, CEO limited visibility for torching then you can consider artificial egg laying Headlines such as these highlight strips. Newts will lay their eggs in how frequently great crested these as they will on plants. You newts and other protected species Great crested newts should install them in groups of 5, surveys do not comply with best stall Ed Sheeran’s approximately 1-2m apart for every practice and that often proper 25m pond edge. Make sure they are habitat assessments have not been plans for a Saxon fully submerged. When you check undertaken. chapel them for eggs remember to put them And there are plenty of other back in the water for the eggs to examples. If proper Phase 1 Habitat Planning meeting moved to allow hatch. Remove the strips in August/ for removal of great crested September. Assessments had been undertaken newts from housing development at the appropriate time of the year, To make egg strips cut a bin bag this would have highlighted the Cambridgeshire school extension delayed by newts across the joined sides to create presence or possibility that great strips that are about 30mm deep. Cut crested newts (gcn) were present. off one of the joined sides. Then cut The habitat assessments would have lengthways into 1-2cm wide strips up been followed by surveys during to about 50mm from the remaining spring/early summer and these would joined side. You will end up with a have confirmed the presence of gcn strip with a fringe of long tassels. Newts are most active during the There are several techniques for and an appropriate mitigation plan Wrap this around the end of a stick breeding season (generally March surveying for newts: would have been put in place. Hence (length depending on pond depth) and - May), and will be in and around no surprises. 1. Visual search of pond and secure with a staple. standing water (ponds, ditches etc.). surrounding area Here are some tips for surveying Over the summer and early autumn Newts are most active after dark for newts, but please note these during the day they will take shelter 2. Egg searching and torching is a great way to see tips are only for lay-people, there on land and come out to feed at 3. Netting in pond (should only be them and see the males’ wonderful is much more stringent guidance night. mating dance. Do consider the safety for professional surveys relating to done if you are experienced in netting) elements when doing night time proposed property or infrastructure torching. developments. 4. Night torching the pond 6 7 A B

C eDNA for detecting great crested newts a replacement for traditional survey techniques?

by Dr Laurence Jarvis, Science & is usually highly reliable and effective suffocation of Research Manager at detecting great crested newts. newts in traps) Research carried out by Biggs et and are not Environmental DNA, or eDNA, is al. (2015) at 35 ponds in Hampshire always highly released by most organisms as they and Wales showed that eDNA could effective. Biggs occupy different . Each successfully detect the presence et al. (2015) found species has a unique of eDNA of great crested newts in 99.3% of that bottle trapping which can be recognised through ponds. This was significantly higher detected great laboratory analysis. This provides than the success rate of more crested newt presence in 76% of a novel tool for detecting species traditional survey techniques. ponds and egg searching in only 44% within the environment. Sources of of visits. Using traditional survey eDNA may originate from sloughed techniques, Natural England advice skin or hair, eggs, faeces and saliva recommends four visits to a breeding (Figure 1). Within aquatic habitats, pond in the newt breeding season most organisms release eDNA into (mid-March to mid-June) using a Figure 2. Traditional techniques such as egg-searching (A), bottle trapping (B) and night torching (C) need to be carried the surrounding water. An increasing minimum of three traditional survey out on four separate visits to determine presence or absence of great crested newts from a pond. number of methods are now available techniques (Natural England, 2015) for detecting the eDNA of a range (Figure 2). The eDNA technique, by sessions required using traditional newts, there are a number of population size or relative abundance of aquatic organisms including fish, contrast, can detect great crested survey techniques. However, the limitations of using eDNA to survey of great crested newts using ponds. damselfly nymphs, crustaceans Photo: Dave Kilbey newts on just one visit with minimal analysis costs associated with ponds: 2. Life stages: eDNA only records and amphibians. In recent years, disturbance to breeding ponds (Biggs eDNA may be significant, especially 1. Estimation of abundance: the presence, or recent occupancy, of techniques have advanced to allow Figure 1. A male great crested newt et al., 2015). if carrying out many samples. A the detection of eDNA of great swimming in a pond will release eDNA second major advantage of eDNA level of eDNA detected from samples ponds by newts; it does not show crested newts from their breeding into its surroundings through shed One of the major advantages of is its overall reliability compared to taken from a pond does not correlate which life stages are present e.g. ponds. This has proved particularly skin, excreta and saliva. eDNA is the relative ease that other traditional methods. However, well with the number of newts in adults, eggs or larvae, or when they useful for ecologists and voluntary samples can be taken from a pond a range of studies have found the pond. Biggs et al. (2015) found were last in the pond (Rees et al., surveyors who need to determine Traditional survey techniques for and the subsequent reduction in variations in the success of eDNA, that at low levels of detection, eDNA 2014a). Traditional survey techniques the presence or absence of great detecting great crested newts such labour costs. For example, one ranging from 60% to 99% (Buxton et may reflect the number of newts can identify actual animals which crested newts for the purposes of as egg-searching, night torching and fieldworker may be able to take al., 2017). but at higher levels, there was only is useful for looking at life stage, conservation and mitigation. The bottle trapping are labour intensive, samples for analysis within one a weak, non-significant correlation. sex ratio and potentially the body eDNA technique, though expensive, carry certain risks (e.g. potential survey visit, compared to the multiple Despite it’s apparent reliability and Therefore, it is not currently condition of individuals. success in detecting great crested possible to use eDNA to estimate the 8 9 should be taken when analysing the effectiveness of eDNA with Lewis, E., Adams, I.P., Brotherton, P., A B the results from eDNA; ecologists metabarcoding, Harper et al. (2018) Phillips, S.& Hanfling, B. (2018) Needle and surveyors should consider found that although metabarcoding in a haystack? A comparison of eDNA eDNA as an additional technique enabled a greater volume of metabarcoding and targeted qPCR to complement traditional survey biodiversity information to be for detection of the great crested methods, rather than being viewed as obtained from samples, the technique newt ( cristatus). Ecology and replacing existing techniques (Rees is currently not as sensitive as single- Evolution, 8: 6330-6341. et al., 2014). species e-DNA techniques. As with Harper, L.R., Handley, L.L., Hahn, C., e-DNA, metabarcoding should not Boonham, N., Rees, H.C., Lewis, E., Lewis, Metabarcoding differs from yet be considered a replacement E., Adams, I.P., Brotherton, P., Phillips, species-specific e-DNA methods to traditional survey techniques S. & Hänfling, B. (in review) Generating in that sections of DNA (primers) but rather to complement methods and testing ecological hypotheses at are identified which span multiple already used (Harper et al., 2018). species groups, whilst also adjoining the pondscape with environmental DNA which is species specific References DNA metabarcoding: a case study on a (Harper et al., 2018). This enables threatened amphibian. a range of species to be identified Biggs, J., Ewald, N., Valentini, A., Available at: https://www.biorxiv.org/ C from samples and allows community Gaboriaud, C., Dejean, T., Griffiths, R.A., content/10.1101/278309v4.full analysis to be undertaken. For Foster, J., Wilkinson, J.W., Arnell, A., Brotherton, P., Williams, P. & Dunn, F. example, Harper et al. (in review) Natural England (2015) Great crested (2015) Using eDNA to develop a national have shown, using metabarcoding newts: surveys and mitigation for citizen science-based monitoring techniques, that great crested newts development projects. https://www. programme for the great crested are more likely to inhabit ponds gov.uk/guidance/great-crested-newts- newt (Triturus cristatus). Biological where smooth newts (T. vulgaris) surveys-and-mitigation-for-development- Conservation, 183: 19-28. and moorhens (Gallinula chloropus) projects#when-to-survey. Accessed 20th are present, but not ponds with Buxton, A.S., Groombridge, J.J. & June 2018. ( bufo), common Griffiths, R.A. (2017) Is the detection of Rees, H.C., Bishop, K., Middleditch, D.J., carp (Cyprinus carpio) and three- aquatic environmental DNA influenced Patmore, J.R.M., Maddison, B.C. & Gough, spined sticklebacks (Gasterosteus by substrate type? PLoS ONE, 12 (8): K.C. (2014) The application of eDNA for aculeatus) were present. Other e0183371. uses of metabarcoding have been monitoring of the Great Crested Newt demonstrated by Dufrefnes et al. Bohmann, K., Evans, A., Thomas, M., in the UK. Ecology and Evolution, 4 (21): (2018) who used the technique to Gilbert, P., Carvalho, R., Creer, S., Knapp, 4023-4032. successfully identify the invasive M., Yu, D.W. & de Bruyn, M. (2014) Rees, H.C., Maddison, B.C., Middleditch, Italian crested newt (Triturus Environmental DNA for wildlife biology D.J., Patmore, J.R.M. & Gough, K.C. carnifex) from native great crested and biodiversity monitoring. Trends in (2014a) The detection of aquatic newt (T. cristatus) populations in Ecology & Evolution, 29 (6): 358-367. species using environmental DNA - a Switzerland. Therefore, community review of eDNA as a survey tool in Figure 3. Ponds which support low populations of newts (A), are shallow (B), or difficult to access (C) are likely to have analysis has the potential for Dufresnes, C., Déjean, T., Zumbach, S., ecology. Journal of Applied Ecology, 51: an increased likelihood of false absences using the eDNA technique. identifying species composition Schmidy, B.R., Fumagalli, L., Ramseier, 1450-1459. and result in development of more P. & Dubey, S. (2018) Early detection and spatial monitoring of an emerging 3. Breeding or non-breeding? It study carried out by Biggs et al. great crested newts being carried effective conservation initiatives. Thomsen, P.F. & Willerslev, E. (2015) biological invasion by population genetics is often useful to determine whether (2015), this was only carried out on to the pond by other species (e.g. Environmental DNA - An emerging tool Metabarcoding is still in its infancy, and environmental DNA metabarcoding. great crested newts are breeding 35 ponds in two counties in the UK. birds); or unsterilized equipment in conservation for monitoring past and there are potential problems Conservation Science and Practice. within a pond as this may show Similar research carried out by Rees contaminating samples (Bohmann et and present biodiversity. Biological such as abundant species preventing 1:e86. https://doi.org/10.1111/csp2.86 persistence of a viable, long-term et al. (2014) on 38 ponds showed that al., 2014). Conservation, 183: 4-18. population. However, the eDNA eDNA had a lower success rate of detection of rare species (Harper Harper, L.R., Handley, L.L., Hahn, C., technique is not able to detect 89% in detecting great crested newts 6. Reduction or loss of DNA in et al., 2018). In a study comparing Boonham, N., Rees, H.C., Gough, K.C., if newts are laying eggs within a in ponds. the water: loss or reduction in pond; it can only determine if they the quantity of DNA from within are present, or have recently been 5. False positives: detecting newts samples can result from inhibition, present. when they are not present is less degradation, and binding to commonly a problem with eDNA for sediments. 4. False absences: a false absence great crested newts but can occur is when a particular technique fails when there is contamination within Overall, although using eDNA to determine the presence of the the samples collected (Thomsen & to detect the presence of great species, even though it is present. Willerslev, 2015). Potential sources crested newts is highly effective of contamination include: excrement and usually reliable, ecologists and Although the level of false absences from animals that prey on great surveyors must be aware of the using eDNA was very low in one crested newts; the eDNA of dead potential limitations when carrying out surveys. Therefore, caution 10 11 Low Impact Class Licence for Great Crested Newts by Dr Laurence Jarvis, Science & (CIEEM) and Natural England (Figure • Waterbodies used higher impact activities. This Research Manager 1). To obtain accreditation by by great crested reduces the administrative bur- Natural England, surveyors have to newts must not be affected; dens on Natural England, results Across England, ecologists wishing attend training and meet rigorous although ditches that are used in savings for the consultant to survey for great crested newts criteria, demonstrating that they by great crested newts may be and speeds up the development must hold a Class 1 or 2 survey are competent to take on work with temporarily impacted across a process. licence granted by Natural England. less regulation. Surveyors must part of their length. Due to a reduction in adminis- These licences allow ecologists and demonstrate an understanding of the • tration time, site registration volunteers to undertake surveys for licensing process by passing a test • The licence is only applicable at requests can be turned round great crested newts. However, due following attendance at a training sites where there has been no potentially within 10 working to the large number of surveyors course provided by Natural England. history of licensed great crested wishing to hold a licence, and the newt mitigation, and where there days, rather than the standard 30 (minimum) working days applied rate of development of land across Surveyors holding a Low Impact are no other proposals for devel- Figure 1. To become a Registered to a conventional licence applica- England, this licencing approach Class Licence can only operate in opment. Consultant and hold a Low Impact tion. is proving time consuming and certain situations, as follows: Class Licence, ecologists must attend costly to implement. Therefore, The Low Impact Class Licence must training sessions accredited by There may be an option for deal- Natural England have devised an • The development must not be used as in conventional mitigation • CIEEM and Natural England. ing with unexpected ‘last minute’ additional licensing system which extend beyond a certain size, licensing and only be employed GCN discoveries. may be applied in certain situations. including both aquatic and ter- when it meets the purposes of the Benefits of the Great Crested Newt restrial habitat. This area differs legislation, when alternative options Known at the Low Impact Class Low Impact Class Licence The majority of the advantages depending on the distance from a have been considered and favourable Licence (LICL), this follows on from of the Low Impact Class Licence Figure 2. The potential impacts waterbody used by great crested status of the great crested newt • The process is more cost effec- a similar bat licence initiated by result in benefits to Natural on great crested newts and their newts. population will be maintained. tive for Natural England so that Natural England. In the Low Impact England, Registered Consultants habitats under the Low Impact Class However, unlike conventional it only requires submission of Class Licence approach, surveyors and developers. Overall the LICL Licence are not yet fully understood. • The development should be of a mitigation licences, the responsibility a single site registration form are able to become Registered approach is still in its early stages short duration, usually up to six is on the Registered Consultant to and map. Low impact activities Consultants which is promoted by and is still subject to alteration by months and no longer than 12 gather all the necessary information do not require the same volume the Chartered Institute of Ecology Natural England. It may take several months. to demonstrate that the above of information to be prepared and Environmental Management years to determine the effectiveness criteria have been met. and supplied compared to that of this new approach and impacts on in support of more complex and great crested newts.

12 13 My love for amphibians by Xavier Mahele emperor of the forest floor. toxicity while others like the mossy causing winterkill mass mortality. If antimicrobial properties and filling our wetlands and forests and frogs have incredible textured this continues, populations may not Epibatidine synthesized from have the chance to find newts and Mottled tadpoles splash Encounters like these have drawn me camouflage allowing them to blend be able to recover. Epipedobates dart frog poison has hiding under logs. and twist on the surface of the pond to the diverse and fascinating world into their environments. Some the potential to be a highly effective voraciously feeding on bloodworms of amphibians. are even fluorescent under UV The global decline in amphibians pain killer. Beside my little pond I snap photos before shooting down into the means the ecosystem services of the shy common frog hiding in the I am often asked by school friends light such as the pumpkin toadlet murky depths to evade my shadow. (Brachycephalus ephippium). they provide could be lost forever; Amphibians indicate a healthy reeds as a blackbird sings overhead. Courting male smooth newts dance, and family why I am so obsessed bioturbation, biomass and pest environment yet they also have an I’ll upload them later to the suspended in the crystal clear water with them. Maybe it’s because they Amphibians have a variety of control are all vital to secure intrinsic value. This endeavor to ‘Dragon Finder’ app, proud that I’m column fanning and are all so incredibly different. They fascinating reproductive strategies a sustainable future. Without fight against the global decline in contributing to our understanding of displaying their ornate crests whilst range in size from the smallest and life cycles from amphibians we could lose our amphibians and halt the devastation herpetofauna and pleased my local females wrap their pearl like eggs extant vertebrate - Paedophryne to direct development. Gastric chance to develop new medicines facing all biodiversity in the amphibians approve of the habitat I on the verdant hornwort leaves. The amanuensis at 7.9mm to the Chinese brooding frogs look after the eggs in from antimicrobial compounds Anthropocene is what inspires me. have created for them. tiny pond in my London garden is giant at 1.8m. There their stomachs before releasing the in their skin. Over 200 peptides I think it’s imperative to secure a brimming with spring life. are arboreal leaf frogs which glide neonate froglets from their mouths from 10 species of Phyllomedusa sustainable future where we may all and leap through the canopy and and Darwin’s frogs (Rhinoderma) are being developed for their be able to hear the calls of anurans Further afield the metallic calls of fossorial burrowing caecilians. Many harbour developing tadpoles in their dink frogs echo through the montane loudly fill the soundscapes of their vocal sacs. Midwife toads carry their forest at sunset. My torch beam ecosystems after rain while others, eggs on their backs and the ringed scanning the leaf litter catches the like the charismatic Panamanian caecilian (Siphonops annulatus) even glinting jet black skin of a Ring tailed golden frog wave to attract mates in feeds its offspring its own skin in a Salamander beginning its nocturnal their noisy stream side habitat. phenomenon known as ‘maternal foray from underneath a log; the Some have resplendent colours dermatophagy’. like the while As their biphasic lives are intrinsically troglodytic species such as the olm connected to their disappearing are paler. Bright aposematic colours habitats, amphibians are vanishing on some dart frogs, mantellas and unnoticed. Their sensitive permeable fire bellied toads warn of their skin absorbs pollutants from industry and agriculture causing deformity, hermaphroditism and death. Poor biosecurity in the allows emerging infectious diseases to run rampant even in healthy ecosystems leading to enigmatic declines. Human encroachment through roads and developments fragments and separates vulnerable populations hindering their ability to migrate safely. If these threats were not devastating enough, climate change is causing our native amphibians to breed earlier in the year leaving them vulnerable to sudden frostier periods

14 15 Clergymen preached that the Creator ‘Probably the most famous toad unmasked as a fraudster and the had placed the eternal amphibians in the world’. Admittedly when it whole ‘toad-in-the-hole’ phenomenon in rocks at the dawn of time. comes to world-famous toads it’s would come crashing down, The eye of the beholder Subscribers to Darwin’s new theory not a particularly crowded field with dismissed as poppycock. Toad of evolution were perplexed. Charles only to contest The British public had been tricked by Michael Blencowe (Senior Learning & Engagement Officer, Sussex Wildlife Trust) Dickens wrote of his bewilderment the title. Alongside the original oval while others believed it was simply of cleft flint sits the shrivelled body by the lies of a few self-serving Ensconced in my corner of a Sussex to the pond where they were born. Throughout England’s history they sorcery. Scientists began burying of the infamous amphibian. The charlatans whose deception had pub I didn’t look far for inspiration for They proceed on this pilgrimage with have been vilified; linked to living toads in sealed boxes to whole surreal exhibit is like a Kinder been perpetuated by the press. this month’s article. The clanging of a determined, unsteady gait - like one and strange superstitions. And, when investigate the unfortunate animal’s Surprise designed by Hieronymus Thankfully this curious, rather brass on lead alerted me to a couple of those old men you see gingerly it comes to folklore, there’s nowt longevity. Bosch. embarrassing chapter has been of lads playing that most Sussex of crossing the shingle on his way to so queer as Toads. Rubbing Toads rightfully consigned to a dark corner The Lewes toad of 1898 is the But this cracked up flint isn’t all it’s of our history. Let’s hope this sort of pub games - Toad in the Hole. The his annual New Year’s Day dip. But on your body could cure cancer; a perfect excuse for some sycophantic once the Toad hits the water he is live Toad in your mouth could cure world’s only surviving artefact of cracked up to be. The Lewes toad thing doesn’t happen again. toadying to an amphibian I adore; rejuvenated and has one thing on skin infections. Precious jewels the entombed toad craze. It now was originally presented to the warts and all. his mind. Croaking and brawling a (toadstones) were reputed to be resides in Brighton’s incredible Brighton and Hove Natural History peaceful pond is transformed into a hidden in a Toad’s head. Immortal Booth Museum of Natural History and Philosophical Society by Charles Toads are beautiful. Yes, I know Club 18-30 pool party as male Toads toad-eaters were a sideshow - one of my favourite places in the Dawson. That’s the same Charles they have lumpy, poisonous skin. squabble over females in a writhing attraction at country fairs. Travelling whole world. Amongst the many awe Dawson who would soon be sticking Yes, I know they have a face like Ena ball of amorous amphibians. Toad doctors could heal you with inspiring exhibits at The Booth you’ll some Orangutan teeth on a human Sharples. But that eye. That amazing Toad hearts and legs. The mysterious find a special cabinet dedicated to skull and declaring he had discovered eye. Next time you see a toad get The results of this Bacchanalian Toadmen used Toad potions to cure curiosities. In it, lying reverentially the ‘missing link’ at Piltdown near right up close and allow yourself to bonding are long polka dot ribbons of horses (a practice that allegedly on a bed of maroon felt, there is Uckfield. In 1953 Dawson would be be hypnotized by that mesmerizing (unlike the Frog’s shapeless continued until the 1930s in some golden-ringed eye. Fellow toad lover tapioca blobs) and by May the parent English counties). George Orwell called it “about the Toads have left their breeding ponds most beautiful eye of any living to lead a more respectable life on dry It took Kenneth Grahame’s beloved creature”. land until their winter . ‘’ to finally Amazingly these animals can live for drag the Toad out of the dark ages In February that beautiful eye blinks over 40 years. putting him in a tweed suit and in the open as toads awaken from their hearts of the nation. Keep an eye out winter hibernation. From under With their primordial appearance, for these amazing animals around stones, logs and leaves they emerge annual gatherings and rituals there Sussex in the coming months as they and start the long walk home - back is a touch of evil about the Toad. return to their ponds. Toad-in-a-Hole Curiouser and curiouser Once upon a time the British people core. To the quarrymen’s amazement were divided. Impassioned debates entombed within the ancient flint was raged throughout the land, truth and a dead toad. common sense became distorted and the public rose up and demanded an During the 1800’s Britain ‘toad-in- answer. An answer to one question. the-hole’ hysteria hit the headlines. How the bloody hell did that toad get It seemed like every month the inside that rock? newspapers reported how someone had split open a rock and found a In 1898 two burly workmen in a chalk toad inside. Some of these toads had quarry near Lewes cracked open a already croaked but others would hollow chunk of flint. The solid rock, inexplicably still be alive and hopping. formed 85 million years ago, split The Victorian world was thrown into open to reveal an airtight cavity at its theological and philosophical panic.

16 17 GCN Acrostic Gradually Reclining into sprays of Elegant weeds, poems from As otters play and Trout loiter; Creeping Toad Caring nothing for the Ripples and Eddies where Silent pike Float, full of an Eerie Destructive promise

Newts Evade everything With a smile, bringing Their own Silent danger.

The newt A small dragon hangs, Mid-water and weightless, In a deep cold pool , A delicate jungle unfurling Beneath slender, splayed toes, Watching the world Through eyes as golden As a pirate’s envy.

Watch Night dark and jewelled A cruise, a prowl , a darting strike; Stillness follows.

18 19 Newts: latest literature

by Dr Laurence Jarvis, Science & and were more likely to immigrate migrate Research Manager to ponds with high densities of to another palmate and alpine newts. It appears pond Identifying suitable breeding that T. cristatus adults do not avoid the next ponds is crucial for amphibians. ponds with a high density of other year; however individuals which Newts may select ponds in which newt species to limit competition remained site faithful in one year to breed using a range of criteria such as for food or egg-laying sites. were likely to remain for the next such as habitat quality, including Instead, the results from this study and subsequent years (Denoel et pond size and location; the size show that great crested newts tend al., 2018). These findings show that A B and age of the individual; as well to aggregate in ponds with high individual behavioural variation may as the presence and abundance numbers of other closely related occur within great crested newt Both smooth newts (A) and alpine newts (B) produce underwater clicks which may be used to help identify individuals of members of the same species newt species and may be using scent populations. In this study, individual within an area. (conspecifics). In addition, newts cues to locate suitable breeding newts which exhibited the dispersing may use the presence and cues of ponds (Cayuela et al., 2018). These strategy occupied, on average, larger 2018); however, little is known about underwater sound in aquatic specimens in the pet trade. It is individuals from other species when results suggest that great crested ponds than individuals displaying sound production in European newt European newt species. important to convey this message making decisions about dispersal newts may use the presence of other the highly site faithful strategy. In species. It is known that aquatic to hobbyists who may hold captive Amphibian disease spread is and migration (heterospecific closely related newt species as a addition, individuals with a low site newts occasionally produce squeaks specimens of species from Europe, becoming of increasing concern attraction) (Figure 1). Cayuela et al. proxy of breeding pond quality, i.e. faithful strategy had a larger body when handled or clucking sounds such as the , to ensure in the UK. The chytrid fungus, (2018) carried out research on great if there are already high numbers of size and higher survival rate (Figure whilst gulping air at the water surface that our native newt species remain Batrachochytrium salamandrivorans crested newt (Triturus cristatus) palmate and alpine newts present 2). Larger individuals are likely to but little else is known of sound disease-free. (Bsal) is a recently discovered dispersal patterns to determine how in a pond then it indicates high prey be able to move faster and are less production or its function in these disease which has caused high mass References they are affected by the presence abundance and a good quality habitat prone to desiccation than smaller species. Generally, salamanders and mortality and population declines in of two heterospecific species: the for breeding. individuals. Therefore, the risks newts lack a tympanum and middle Cayuela, H., Grolet, O. & Joly, newt and salamander species in The alpine newt ( alpestris) posed of migrating on land are higher ear, but they may detect sounds P. (2018) Context‑dependent In a related study on great crested Netherlands, and . and the palmate newt ( for smaller newts and these are less through other means such as an dispersal, public information, and newts, Denoel et al. (2018) found Research suggests that this disease helveticus). Over a 20-year period likely to be high-dispersers. air-filled mouth cavity or air volumes heterospecific attraction in newts. that great crested newts exhibit two originated in Asian salamanders at four clusters of three ponds in in their lungs (Hubáček et al., 2018). Oecologia, 188 (4): 1069-1080. types of behavioural strategies: site Sound production has been and has been brought to Europe via eastern France the researchers Hubáček et al. (2018) studied the https://doi.org/10.1007/s00442-018- faithful and high dispersing. Whether widely studied in anurans (frogs the pet trade. The disease has not carried out capture-mark-recapture acoustic repertoire of a population of 4267-3. an individual exhibits a site faithful and toads) but remains relatively yet been found in North American on great crested newts. Cayuela et al. alpine newts (Ichthyosaura alpestris) or dispersing strategy may depend understudied in newt species. species but has been recorded Cunningham, A.A., Smith, F., (2018) found that great crested newt and smooth newts (Lissotriton on environmental conditions, as well Terrestrial salamanders produce from pet specimens in both the UK McKinley, T.J., Perkins, M.W., dispersal varied depending on the vulgaris) in the Czech Republic as the individual. Denoel et al. (2018) low intensity sounds, such as hisses, and northern Europe. To evaluate Fitzpatrick, L.D., Wright, O.N. context: individuals were less likely (Figure 3). The researchers found found that individual newts which clicks, or squeaks, when threatened whether BSal is present in newt & Lawson, B. (2019). Apparent to emigrate from ponds with high consistent under water sound migrated in one year were likely to or during mating (Hubáček et al., species in UK newt species (smooth, absence of Batrachochytrium densities of palmate and alpine newts production, mainly clicks, in these palmate and great crested newts), salamandrivorans in wild urodeles two species. Newt underwater sound Cunningham et al. (2019) carried in the . Nature production varied among individuals out disease surveillance between Scientific Reports, 9: 2831. https:// but not between species (Hubáček et from northern Europe such as the 2013 and 2017 as well as using doi.org/10.1038/s41598-019-39338-4. al., 2018). However, click frequency alpine newt increase the risk of introducing Bsal to wild archived samples. Results from this was affected by body mass and Denoël, M., Dalleur, S., Langrand, populations of newt in the UK. study indicate that Bsal is either not suggests that clicks may provide E., Besnard, A. & Cayuela, H. present in wild amphibians in the UK, some information about the body (2018) Dispersal and alternative or that its presence is localised and/ size of the sound producer in the breeding site fidelity strategies in or at low prevalence (Cunningham absence of visual cues. Therefore, an amphibian. Ecography, 41 (2018): et al., 2019). Cunningham et al. these clicks may have some potential 1543-1555. (2019) therefore recommend for sex recognition in alpine newts “it is appropriate to adopt the Hubáček, J., Šugerková, M. & because of their prominent sexual precautionary principle and develop Gvožík, L. (2018) Underwater sound size dimorphism with females being plans based on the assumption production varies within not between larger than males. Although some that wild amphibians in the UK are species in sympatric newts. PeerJ, of the findings from this study currently Bsal-free”. However, there 7: e6649 http://doi.org/10.7717/ are speculative, it demonstrates is still a risk of the disease spreading peerj.6649. the potential for a function for to wild newt species from captive 20 21 Reports on three Great Crested Newt sites

Hampton Nature Reserve, Peterborough Muiravonside Country Park by Ross Edgar, programme. One of by James Stead, Conservation the main tasks during Come Forth for Officer volunteer days is Wildlife Project clearing trees & Manager Hampton Nature scrub around ponds Reserve (HNR) that are in later Muiravonside is a 300 acre stages of succession. Country Park, former brick The cut material is managed by pit & is a then used to build Falkirk Community Trust, is the only designated SSSI (Site of Special hibernacula. country park in the Falkirk area and Scientific Interest) & SAC (Special has a fantastic range of habitats and Area of Conservation) on the Another project attractions within. These include outskirts of Peterborough. The that has just been woodland, parkland, an animal farm, , close to a survey pond reserve has a number of protected completed is the sculpture trail, play areas and café. species, including great crested newt. undertaking of However the country park is also targeted marginal home to a population of great crested Froglife manages the reserve on vegetation newts and Froglife originally worked behalf of the landowner (O&H). The management, mainly in the park in 2015 on our previous site is closed to the public & the reed bed, clearing project in Scotland, Scottish Dragon only way to access it is to volunteer scallops into 65 Finder, to restore the existing great with Froglife. Volunteers work on great crested newt crested newt pond and create four different projects around the reserve breeding ponds new lined ponds nearby. including habitat management & also around the reserve. a variety of species surveys across The scallops are With these successfully in place the site. generally 1.5 metres and our new Scottish project, Come Forth for Wildlife, launching at the There are more than 300 ponds wide & 1.5 metres Brush Cutting scallops in one of the newt survey ponds end of 2019, there was scope to on the reserve & almost all of the from the pond edge. February 2020 further enhance the network of great terrestrial habitat is favourable for This allows access for torch light crested newt ponds. Creating new great crested newts including scrub ponds of different shapes, sizes across the site & woodland to the surveys during spring. The 65 ponds, spread across the reserve are then and depths is of great benefit to a northern & southern areas of the range of flora and fauna but also has reserve. surveyed three times each year. The cut reed is piled up making habitat advantages for the great crested Ponds created in 2015 by Froglife We are currently working on the piles that are beneficial to grass newt population. This pond network habitat management & improvement snakes & other wildlife. is now more robust, meaning that if a pond were to fail in the future or be compromised then great crested newts could utilise other ponds for breeding. The additional ponds also give the chance for the local great crested newt population to expand.

In November 2019 two new lined ponds were created. One of these is near to a footpath within the country park and is the only pond in the park to feature a dipping platform which is a now a great educational resource for the local rangers. A second pond is located more discreetly in an area not easily accessed and thus quieter for wildlife. These ponds will be monitored over the next ten years and staff are always on the lookout at the country park for newt sightings. We will be keen to see what takes up residence in the new ponds as spring One new pond created in November 2019 as part of Come Forth for Wildlife 22 develops in 2020! 23 Reports on three Great Crested Newt sites Studying the effects of predator cues on Sheffield great crested newt larvae by James McAdie, F.E.S by Rachel McNally in ponds without fish present, and of response to kairomones in the leaving some in their original ponds. development and proportions of Operations Amphibians have always been close Manager To keep track of the larvae, I made the embryos supported a number to my heart, so I was thrilled to small mesh bags to put them in of previous ex situ studies on the I vividly get the opportunity to conduct my within the pond - this meant that the topic but, with a wealth of research remember postgraduate research project at kairomones could get to the larvae, in amphibians showing effects of growing up that Froglife’s Hampton Nature Reserve whilst keeping them safe, secure kairomones on these factors, it was break times in 2018. My study involved looking to and easy for me to find. They were surprising nonetheless. Similarly, and lunch times at school were spent see whether chemical cues released kept in these ponds for two weeks, a lack of difference in survival time frantically moving from individual to by predators, also called kairomones, during which time I visited the site between the fish-pond and non-fish- individual looking to conclude deals affected the larval development three days per week and took photos pond efts was unexpected, as this is Two sites almost 4km apart on the The Sheffield Wetland Corridor trading in the accepted currency of great crested newts (Triturus of the larvae. I used these photos to not what Dr Jarvis had found in his South East side of Sheffield were project was born and with help from of the playground...Panini Football cristatus). digitally measure the larvae’s length, earlier study, but it is a promising home to populations of Great Crested Sheffield City Council, Environment Stickers! You would have a stack height and shape, so that I could see result for this protected species. Newts as well as a whole range of Agency, Veolia Environmental Predator-induced plasticity (the of duplicate stickers that you were how quickly they grew and how their other wildlife. Good quality GCN sites Trust, National Grid, Bike Track effects of predator chemical cues looking to swap in exchange for ones proportions changed over time. Of course, there may have been in Sheffield were not in abundance and many others the project began. on prey species) is often studied in that you needed to complete your some other factors which affected and this was one of the reasons Working along the corridor lined amphibians. In 2010, Froglife’s own collection with all having a similar Based on numerous studies in other my results. Many studies start that Froglife in partnership with the ponds and scrapes were created Dr Laurence Jarvis investigated the value with an exception, the golden species, I was expecting the larvae with embryos, whilst I only looked City Council enhanced these sites with wildlife friendly basking banks, effect of chemical cues produced foil club badge stickers. Every to grow more slowly and develop a at the larvae, so it is possible that with the restoration and creation of hibernacula and a mixture of native by three-spined stickleback potential deal would start with the larger tail fin when they were kept in embryonic exposure to predator new breeding ponds for the newts aquatic planting and seed sowing (Gasterosteus aculeatus) on great same question “Do you have any gold ponds with fish present. In addition, kairomones is the key to plasticity present. This work, completed complimenting the new water bodies. crested newt embryos. My work was stickers?” I expected that those individuals that in great crested newts. Similarly, over four years ago, has proved As the months went by the heavens to follow this up, by looking at how were kept in fish-containing ponds amphibians have been shown to successful with surveys showing a opened and the rain fell filling the three-spined stickleback kairomones may not survive for as long as those react in different ways to different healthy increase in Newt numbers ponds as quickly as they were affected great crested newt larvae. kept in ponds without fish - this was predator cues, so it is possible on these two sites. created. Within a year of funding I collected larvae from three ponds based on Dr Jarvis’ findings from that opposing effects from other being secured the projects major 2010, as he found that the embryos predators in the ponds (for example As often happens with these on Hampton Nature Reserve that works have been completed with the did not survive as long when diving or larvae) successful partnerships a new idea were known not to have any fish target of 34 pond creations being exposed to three-spined stickleback counteracted each other, cancelling was discussed and wheels were present within them. I redistributed surpassed and 55 new water bodies kairomones. out any changes that might have put in motion to secure funding the larvae, putting some in ponds spread along the corridor. been seen otherwise. The larvae for an ambitious project to follow where three-spined stickleback were To my surprise, I didn’t see any may also have changed in ways that the course of the River Rother With the project being completed by known to be present, some of these effects! There was no I didn’t study, such as by altering creating new ponds and improving the planting of almost 7,000 native difference in either the their behaviour. It is clear that habitat joining the two original sites tree and scrub whips by the local speed at which the more research is needed to further with 34 new ponds. This wetland community and schools in Feb/Mar Life has changed since the days of larvae grew, the investigate this, and to confirm corridor would provide stepping 2020 it is too early yet to measure Panini football sticker collections for proportions that they whether what I saw was a true effect stones spread amongst ideal habitat the success of the project. With the me with the playground meetings developed or the (or lack thereof), or if there were that would allow the Newts to move quality of the habitat works carried being replaced with site meetings time for which they other factors at play that caused freely and also added connectivity out being so high I am very optimistic usually to discuss pond restorations survived between these results. to nearby sites with populations of that in the near future Sheffield will or creations. The request to larvae kept in Willow Tit and Harvest Mice (two be adding a great deal more gold ascertain the presence of gold fish-containing Acknowledgements more golden sticker candidates!). stickers to their already impressive ponds and those stickers now has been replaced collection! I couldn’t have done any of this with the question “Are there Great kept in non-fish- ponds. The lack without the incredible help and Crested Newts in the ponds?” Great guidance of Dr Laurence Jarvis, Ross Crested Newts have become for me Edgar and Froglife volunteers, and many others the golden stickers or without my University of of the pond world. This is not to Leeds supervisor, Dr devalue the ponds’ other inhabitants Chris Hassall. or place the Newts importance above our other fellow amphibians but it has for numerous reasons including its protection status become one of the initial discussion topics.

24 25 Male great crested newt (Triturus cristatus) entering a A common frog (Bufo bufo) exiting a tunnel at one of our tunnel. sites in northern England.

ecological consultants. This will be and the role of road mitigation of support and once we have reached helpful for implementing the most tunnels. To attract new audiences a substantial number of signatories, effective mitigation solutions for Froglife has created a virtual reality we will use that to provide greater amphibian species. experience of a toad passing through impetus to our guidance to decision a tunnel under a road. This gives an makers. We will contact the Now that we have good data to immersive toad’s-eye view of the relevant Government departments, demonstrate the efficacy of road world and the challenges toads face. all UK Local Authority transport mitigation tunnels for amphibians, 5363 people have tried the virtual departments, ecological consultants the next step is to promote their use. reality so far and evaluation shows and developers, and by combining Too often research is disseminated that 75% of people asked had more guidance on road mitigation tunnels in the academic world and does not understanding of why toad tunnels based on our research plus the Six years of monitoring under-road reach the decision makers and, in are needed after the VR experience. substantial support from the public this case, infrastructure developers. from our campaign and petition, we Froglife has initiated a campaign These events are being run in aim to effect real change. tunnels for amphibians to promote more good quality road high-footfall areas such as London mitigation tunnels: https://www. stations and major events such as Jarvis, L.E., Hartup, M. & Petrovan, S. froglife.org/what-we-do/education/ New Scientist Live! which attract O. (2019) Road mitigation using tunnels by Sheila Gundry, Development ( salamandra), great london-t-o-a-d/t-o-a-d-campaign/ . a different range of people from and fences promotes site connectivity Manager and Dr Laurence Jarvis, crested newt (Triturus cristatus), This is proving to be popular and standard wildlife events. New and population expansion for a protected Science & Research Manager western spadefoot toad (Pelobates support levels are increasing rapidly. Scientist Live had 40,000 attendees, amphibian. European Journal of cultripes) and Iberian ribbed newt The campaign is being run in tandem with 1582 undergoing the Toads VR, Wildlife Research, 65:27-38. https://doi. Over the past six years Froglife have (Pleurodeles waltl). In 2019 Froglife with a series of public engagement which is 13% of the total visitor base. org/10.1007/s10344-019-1263-9. been monitoring the success of road published findings from one of events to raise awareness of the mitigation tunnels for amphibians. our sites in Northern England, benefits to amphibian populations, issue of amphibian road deaths The campaign is gaining high levels We have used unique infrared time demonstrating a significant lapse cameras to monitor amphibian providing valuable corridors between population increase in the great Road mitigation tunnel awareness raising stall at Liverpool Street station, London movements through 34 tunnels terrestrial and aquatic habitats. crested newt, a European protected We are currently working on across 7 sites in four countries species, over a four year period. across Europe (England, Scotland, analysing data from all of our sites France and Portugal). During this Our research has shown that to fully evaluate the success of the time period we have recorded mitigation tunnels can provide tunnels and to provide guidance 4,760 individual for developers, local councils and amphibians from 11 species including common frog ( temporaria), agile frog (R. dalmatina), fire salamander

Newly installed mitigation tunnels at a site in the south of England. 26 27 To order visit www.froglife.org/shop Froglife is frogalogue or call 01733 602102 supported by

The Gibson Charitable Trust ~ Esmee We have a range of cards, books and gifts for all occasions in the online Fairbairn Foundation ~ National Froglife shop at www.froglife.org/shop. All funds raised support our Heritage Lottery Fund ~ BBC Children conservation and education work. in Need ~ Natural England ~ Ernest Kleinwort Charitable Trust ~ Partners For Health ~ London Catalyst ~ Hillingdon Community Fund ~ Cambridgeshire Community Fund ~ Froglife Shop stocks Field Life Changes Trust ~ Scottish Natural Study Guides why not hop Heritage ~ Tesco’s Bags for Help ~ across to our online shop to Zoological Society of London ~ John see what’s in stock prices Ellerman ~ Peterborough City Council start from £3.00 ~ The Gannochy Trust ~ The Robertson Trust ~ Veolia Environmental Trust ~ Postcode Local Trust ~ The Hedley Foundation ~ Waitrose’s Bags for Help ~ The Mickel Fund ~ Somerset County Council ~ St James Place Charitable Foundation ~ Enovert Community Trust ~ Biodiversity Challenge Fund via Give Froglife Friendship as an extra special Scottish Natural Heritage ~ Chapman gift to someone you know who cares about Charitable Trust ~ The Ironmongers’ frogs (and all amphibians and reptiles!...). Company ~ Heathrow Community Fund As well as knowing your contribution is ~ Blodwen Llyod Binns Bequest Fund ~ going toward the conservation of the UK’s Bromley Trust ~ The Hospital Saturday amphibians and reptiles your friend or family Fund ~ The Hugh Fraser Foundation ~ member will also receive a special pack. Alexander Moncur Trust ~ South West Environmental Action Trust ~ Garfield Weston Foundation ~ Greeneer City Fund Community Grant Scheme ~ John Spedan Lewis Foundation ~ EB Scotland ~ Clackmannanshire Stirling Environmental Trust ~ William Dean Trust ~ Falkirk Council ~ Glasgow Credit Union ~ Dundee Bio Blitz ~ The Environment Agency ~ National Lottery Grants for Heritage ~ The National Lottery Community Fund

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Trustees: Inez Smith (Chair), Roger Downie (Vice Chair), Frank Clark, Philip Wheeler, Gordon MacLellan, Richard Donoyou and Silviu Petrovan.

Volunteers: And finally, but certainly not least, a big thank you to all of our volunteers especially all those toad patrollers who did such a terrific job again this year.

Photo: Greg Hitchcock