Conservation of Amphibian Populations in Britain

Abstract

Species conservation involves an evaluation of distribution and status, knowledge of habitat requirements, the extent of dispersal and specification of practical measures to ensure survival, together with an appropriate legal framework and public attitude.

Evaluation of amphibian distribution and status in mainland Britain has involved a national survey, the methods, findings and limitations of which are reviewed. Knowledge of habitat requirements and dispersal patterns essential for conservation, may be gained from survey questionnaire returns and by field experiments at the population level. Our work on Trituras cristatus and Bufo bufo is used as an illustration. Practical measures to effect conservation may include the use of reserves, tunnel systems, barriers to movement, translocation of populations and habitat management. These options are discussed with reference to the same two species. The interaction and impact of legislation and public attitude, both as important to conservation as biological aspects, are discussed. Amphibian conservation in Britain still has much to achieve, but the progress is not entirely discouraging.