Endangered Toad Breeds in Saksfjed Wilderness

An unexpected flood has created ideal breeding conditions for an endangered toad species at the southern tip of Lolland.

This winter’s heavy rainfall has had an unexpected positive effect on the rare European green toad. A temporary pond, formed by floodwaters in the Østerdyb nature area near Saksfjed Wilderness, has proven to be a perfect breeding site for the species.

Our mission is to give nature more space, and this news about the European green toad truly captures the essence of what we aim to achieve.

Natural Processes Created the Breeding Site

The new breeding habitat emerged naturally because an old drainage system in the area failed, resulting in a flooded field. The standing water created the ideal conditions for the toads to reproduce.

The European green toad is known for its distinct whistling call, which can only be heard when the water temperature exceeds 10 degrees Celsius. Each toad also has a unique pattern on its back, as distinctive as a human fingerprint.

They prefer large, open water bodies with few plants and no fish. Amphibians need water to lay their eggs, but if fish are present, there’s a high risk that the eggs and tadpoles will be eaten

A Short but Crucial Opportunity

The temporary pond has already started to dry up, but that is actually a good thing for the toads. Ephemeral wetlands like this prevent fish from establishing, which helps protect the toads’ offspring.

"As the area dries up, it’s fantastic because no fish can settle in the meantime, and by next winter, it will be refilled with rainfall," says Jens Thorving Andersen, adding: "Our goal now is to let the area flood again."

Challenges for an Endangered Species

Despite this positive discovery, the European green toad remains highly endangered in Denmark. The species suffered a severe decline in the 1980s and 1990s when the introduction of fish in many ponds destroyed its natural habitats.

"It’s not easy being a European green toad," says Jens Thorving Andersen. "But we will do everything we can to protect it."