There are around 7,800 recognised species of amphibians around the globe from three orders:
Within the Clyde catchment area, there are five native species of amphibians, details about each can be found below.
LIfe HISTORY The common frog (Rana temporaria) is the most widespread species of amphibian in the Clyde catchment area, encountered in both urban and rural settings. WHAT DO THEY LOOK LIKE? Common frogs have smooth, moist skin. Adults can grow to 9cm (nose to vent). They are generall a shade...
—————
Life History Common toads (Bufo bufo) are frequently encountered in the Clyde catchment, often mistaken for frogs their warty skin, dumpy legs, and preference for walking are the main identifying features. What do they look like? Common toads can grow to 8cm for males and up to 13cm for...
—————
Life History The palmate newt (Lissotriton helveticus) is the most common newt species within the Clyde catchent area, commonly encountered breeding in just about any body of water. What do they look like? The palmate newt is the smallest British amphibian. Their lenght is around 7-11 cm, but in...
—————
Life History Smooth newts (Lissotriton vulgaris) are the least abundant species of newt in Scotland, despite beng the most common in the UK overall. With a atchy local distribution, these newts are encountered much less frequently than the closely related palmate newts. What do they look...
—————
Life History Great crested newts (Triturus cristatus) are Britain’s largest and rarest newt species, locally abundant around parts of the Clyde catchment. What do they look like? Adults Great crested newts can reach 15-18 cm in length. The back of the body is generally dark brown to black with...