Frogs and Toads ¹

Although frogs are commonplace in Ireland many other reptile and amphibian species, such as Smooth or Common Newts and Natterjack toads are rare in Ireland.

This loss is primarily due to massive losses of ponds, which has happened as farming practices changed and development replaced these vital survival sites for amphibians.

The diets of frogs and toads are relatively similar and both are welcome in garden as they eat slugs and snails.

Toads will also eat ants and travel further for their food whereas frogs will eat flying insects and beetles.

Their taste for garden pests makes them an ideal friend for gardeners. The saviour to the common frog and toad has been the increase in the number of garden ponds and toad houses providing alternatives to their lost wildlife habitats.