natterjack

Everyday

A small toad of Europe, including Britain and Ireland, with a yellow stripe down its back, that runs rather than hops and has a very loud croak. tree →

In the lessons

A nature and science word: the natterjack toad lives in sand dunes, heaths and salt marshes, is protected in the UK and Ireland, and is Ireland's only native toad. Male natterjacks call loudly on spring nights; their croak can be heard far away. Useful in lessons on habitats and endangered animals.

Examples

• The natterjack toad has a yellow line down its back. tree →
• Natterjacks run along the sand instead of hopping. tree →
• We heard natterjacks croaking at the nature reserve. tree →
• Natterjack toads are protected because their homes are disappearing. tree →
• In Ireland, natterjacks live in a few places in County Kerry. tree →
• A natterjack's call can be heard over a kilometre away. tree →

Note

Countable noun. The name probably comes from «natter» (to chat noisily) because of its loud call. Do not handle wild toads: they are protected and their skin can make you ill.