Dorset natterjack toads to become stars of BBC Springwatch
The series will feature the amphibians at Hengistbury Head
Some rare amphibians living at Dorset's Hengistbury Head will be the stars of the BBC's Springwatch programme over the next couple of nights.
Natterjack toads thrive in the area, and will feature in the nature show tonight and tomorrow (Tuesday 28th and Wednesday 29th May).
The species has been the subject of 'careful and targeted conservation work' over the last 30 years at the Hengistbury Head Nature Reserve - with BCP Council working closely with the Amphibian and Reptile Conservation Trust.
The Springwatch team are aiming to show the very loud raspy calls of the male toads at dusk, and other aspects of their lives and behaviours.
Presenter Iolo Williams will also be observing some of the other fantastic wildlife that Hengistbury Head and the wider Christchurch Harbour area has to offer, including Starlings, Ringed Plovers, and cliff invertebrates.
Iolo Williams said:
"I’m really looking forward to going to Hengistbury Head to see the amazing wildlife there. Nightjars, White Tailed Eagles and Natterjack toads are all fascinating species and some great conservation work to celebrate too.”
One of the UK’s most charismatic creatures, the Natterjack Toad is smaller than the more widespread Common Toad and sports a yellow line down its back.
A largely nocturnal species, also known as “the running toad,” due to its scurrying habit as it hunts down insect prey, was recorded at Hengistbury Head up until the 1950s when it disappeared.
The current population is now thriving because of a successful reintroduction from Sandy in Bedfordshire to Dorset in 1989, the protection afforded by the man-made ponds and the favourable natural conditions found on the reserve.
The Natterjack Toad is strictly protected by British law which makes it an offence to kill, injure, capture, or disturb (including photograph) them, damage or destroy their habitat, or possess them or sell or trade them in any way.
Cllr Hadley, Portfolio Holder for Climate Response, Environment and Energy, BCP Council said:
“The success of the rare Natterjack Toads at Hengistbury Head is testament to the great environmental and conservation work that the Hengistbury rangers, volunteers and external partners do throughout the year.
“If you aim to visit this stunning nature reserve, please do respect the signs and keep dogs to paths and on a lead, drop in to the Visitor Centre to find out more about accessing the reserve, its wildlife and archaeology or indeed to just buy an ice cream!”
Over a million people visit Hengistbury Head every year and the rangers and volunteers manage a constant balancing act between protecting its wildlife, biodiversity, landscape, and archaeology, whilst giving the public invaluable access to this very special place.
Robin Harley, Countryside Area Manager for BCP Council , with responsibility for the site, said:
“It is a great privilege to play a part in looking after this amazing and important place but it would not be possible without the support of a dedicated team of staff and volunteers, who give many hours of their time to the reserve”.