Common Toad

colincurry · #1 (**permalink**) 14-04-2009, 07:57 PM

We were out today at Fen Drayton when my wife found this super toad right in the middle of the footpath, crouched in the grass.

It was between 5 and 6 inches long. It seemed quite unperturbed even when my wife very carefully moved some grass obstructing the potential photograph.

Although the name is 'Common', it was a rare sighting for us and very pleasing.

Colin

tameblackbirds · #2 (**permalink**) 14-04-2009, 10:49 PM

We nearly stepped on this little one last summer in Pembrokeshire. Not seen an adult toad since I was a child then they were very common where I lived

Hedge Witch · #3 (**permalink**) 14-04-2009, 10:53 PM

I know they have a reputation for being ugly, but I think toads are beautiful. Great shots guys!

treecreeper · #4 (**permalink**) 15-04-2009, 06:33 PM

Meols is knee deep in frogs and toads with natterjacks just a couple of miles away, so this thread was a slight shock. The fact that there are people who rarely see amphibians is a reminder how much British wildlife has been lost, but also strengthens the case for more garden ponds. Colin and tameblackbirds, have a look though the amphibians section and see the results people have got with no more than a half buried bucket or washing up bowl

tameblackbirds · #5 (**permalink**) 15-04-2009, 06:43 PM

have lots of frogs and taddies but no common toads. Had a pond for eight years or more and your right ponds do bring in wildlife.

everyone should have one.

colincurry · #6 (**permalink**) 15-04-2009, 08:23 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by treecreeper

Meols is knee deep in frogs and toads with natterjacks just a couple of miles away, so this thread was a slight shock. The fact that there are people who rarely see amphibians is a reminder how much British wildlife has been lost, but also strengthens the case for more garden ponds. Colin and tameblackbirds, have a look though the amphibians section and see the results people have got with no more than a half buried bucket or washing up bowl

We have a pond not far from us that used to be the mecca for mating amphibians making a trek from adjoining land. This land has been developed and we no longer see them.

We do have a fountain but it is pretty sterile. I will pass on the message about a buried bucket and bowl to the head gardener.

Colin