Reptiles and Amphibians
We would really like to feature more photos and information on the reptiles and amphibians found at Stanpit Marsh. If you have photos you’re happy for us to use, please go to the Galleries page and use the form to upload photos, especially if you spot a Natterjack!
Grass Snake (Natrix natrix)
This non-venomous reptile is olive green or brown in colour, with a creamy yellow collar and vertical bars down back. They are typically three to four feet in length and may be spotted on banks, in scrub or in the water – Crouch Hill is a good place to look out for them, and you may even see one basking.
Natterjack Toad
In 2001 an attempt was made by Christchurch Countryside Service together with the Herpetological Conservation Trust (Now Amphibian and Reptile Conservation) to re-introduce Natterjack toads to Stanpit Marsh.
This endangered species had been recorded around Christchurch harbour in the 1950’s, but they had disappeared until they were successfully re-introduced to Hengistbury Head in the 1990’s.
The Stanpit Marsh re-introduction attempt, by bringing spawn strings from Hengistbury Head, was at first productive, resulting in the breeding and dispersal of the Natterjacks until around 2007. These amphibians live for 12 to 15 years but sadly, there have been no sightings on the Marsh over the last 5 years or so, possibly due to flooding, droughts and the presence of predators such as herons, egrets and grass snakes. Such attempts are always worth a try and this one merited a national Green Apple award at the time.
The photos were taken during the period of the re-introduction.
Natterjack Toad Spawn
Natterjack Toadlets
Adult Natterjack Toad
