Amphibians and reptiles

So far, in the Park, the occurrences of 13 species of amphibians have been reported. Both the rana and green frog occur here peculiarly profusely. We rank the moor frog among rana frogs, and in peculiar we often come across them in spring during the mating season in numerous overflow areas. Males of these frogs take on an intense light blue colour in spring time. Among the particularly rare and interesting species that can be found here includes the natterjack toad, and in the Park there are numerous common spadefoot toads, also called the garlic toad. Common spadefoot tadpoles can even grow up to 17 cm, which is a record amongst our amphibians.

Two species occur among newts: the smooth, and more rarely occurring, the great crested. In the mating period, males of these animals look peculiarly interesting, since they take on an intense colouring of the tail and they develop the characteristic crest on the back.

Seven species of reptiles are present in the Park. The European pond turtle, which is a relict in the country, is regarded as the most endangered reptile, deserves special attention. Its number in the Park is said to reach around 350-450 adults.
Among snakes that can be found are the common European viper, the grass snake, and the only recently discovered smooth snake. We can count three species among lizards: the sand lizard, the viviparous lizard and the legless slow worm. The viviparous lizard, due to its ability to give birth to fully developed young, could become independent from dry and warm places- essential for other lizards to lay and incubate eggs. The situation is similar to the case of common European viper.

Protected species of amphibians in PNP

 

Protected species of reptiles in PNP

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