Abundance, Growth and Feeding of Natterjack Toads (Bufo calamita) In a 4-Year-Old Artificial Habitat

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Abstract
Population density, growth and feeding ecology of pioneering natterjack toads, B. calamita Laurenti, were studied in an artificially-raised site near Amsterdam [The Netherlands]. Pitfall traps were used for sampling the toads and their potential invertebrate prey. Substantial cohorts of fast growing juveniles were added to the population in the 3rd and 4th yr after the creation of the habitat; other amphibians were still virtually absent after 4 yr of succession. Indications were that subadult natterjacks matured early and dispersed well. Comparison of the natterjack stomach contents and the pitfall-caught invertebrates revealed an absence of any qualitative food preference by the toads, which indicates the possibility of a fast functional response towards temporary and locally abundant prey. The available literature data on growth and feeding of natterjacks are reviewed; the figures confirm that this toad is highly flexible and well adapted as a pioneer.

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