There is growing concern that our once widespread amphibian species – frogs and toads -are in national decline. This is due to a reduction in the quality and quantity of ponds mainly through pollution, infilling for development and the spread of alien invasive species of plants and animals.

Estimates show that pond numbers in the UK could be as much as 70% less than in the 1880s.

Our native common frog and common toad are similar in size and shape but you can tell them apart by certain distinguishing features. The common toad has drier bumpier skin, shorter hind legs and a more rounded head and body. The common frog moves in short jumps, whereas the common toad tends to move by walking or hopping. Both species may vary in colour but common toad has striking coppery eyes.

Wight Wildlife would like to know about any frogs or toads you see in 2008. Please send your record and contact details to: Lucy Temple Wight Wildlife, Forest Office, Parkhurst Forest, Newport, Isle of Wight PO30 5UL (01983) 533180 or e-mail: lucyt@hwt.org.uk

The Isle of Wight’s coast is literally buzzing with life! The soft cliffs of the south west and south coasts offer some of the most spectacular views on the Island. Profusions of flowering thrift, bird’s-foot trefoil, kidney vetch and wild carrot paint the cliff slopes with shades of pink, yellow and white from late spring to the end of summer. Not only are they a feast for the eyes, they also provide abundant nectar for bees, butterflies and moths.

The cliffs are home to many rare species of beetles, bees, butterflies and other amazing invertebrates. In fact, recent work by Buglife - The Invertebrate Conservation Trust - has highlighted the fact that the Isle of Wight soft cliffs are some of the richest in the country. They are not just important for rare species; they provide essential habitat for hundreds of others - bumblebees, grasshoppers and bugs which fit into the complex web of life. Invertebrates provide important ‘services’ for us such as pollinating crops and wildflowers, pest control and recycling nutrients.

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September

Tuesday 2 September
Wildlife Warriors
10am - 1pm
Woodland management work at Mill Copse, near Yarmouth on behalf of Wight Nature Fund.
Leader IWC Countryside Rangers
Tel 823893
Meet At entrance to Mill Copse GR 358890

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August

Friday 1 August
Doorstep Medina - Minibeast safari
2pm - 3pm
We'll sweep the hedges and long grass around the cemetery for beetles, bugs and other minibeasts. Suitable for children of all ages.
Leader Ian Boyd Island 2000
Tel 298098
Meet Medina Riverside Park GR 502902

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July
Thursday 3 July
Not a lot of rubbish
10.30am
A tour of the Lynnbottom and Standen Heath landfill sites, including two composting operations to see in detail how the Island's waste is dealt with. Limited numbers; please phone to book. Some difficult terrain; stout shoes needed
Leader Lynn Clarke
Tel 821234
Meet To be advised on booking
Cost Donation to Gift to Nature

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