Last week we hosted an Amphibian and Reptile Conservation (ARC) Trust training day in the Solway Coast National Landscape. The day provided those interested in monitoring and surveying natterjack toad breeding sites with the appropriate training and the opportunity to become accredited agents under ARC’s Natural England license.
The course was attended by local people, partner organisations and individuals from further afield, all sharing a keen interest in conservation and a desire to learn more about the magnificent amphibians who call the Solway Coast National Landscape their home.
ARC Trust staff provided extremely interesting presentations, covering amphibian identification, current legislation, habitat management for natterjack toads and surveying techniques. With a mixture of classroom and field-based learning sessions, attendees gained a complete understanding of surveying and monitoring natterjack toad breeding sites.
Later in the evening, the group had chance to head out for a night time field session. This was a treat for all who came along, hearing the male toads call and even seeing some of last year’s young toads make an appearance around the breeding ponds.
Thank you to the ARC Trust for providing this training.
