Identification
A stocky amphibian with a large rounded head, vertical pupils and a mottled brown back. A hardened structure on each hind foot helps it dig.
When to look
Often active at night, so absence from a daytime walk says little about its presence. Activity is influenced by temperature and moisture.
Where to look
Loose soils in open or semi-open lowland landscapes allow daytime burrowing. Suitable breeding water must also be available nearby.
Behaviour and ecology
Food and nutrition
Small invertebrates are taken during terrestrial feeding. Feeding ground and breeding water have different functions in its life cycle.
Breeding and life cycle
Reproduction uses standing water, with aquatic larvae developing before the young move onto land. Water must last long enough for development.
A closer look
Its digging adaptation allows it to spend much of the day concealed below the surface, rather than sitting openly beside a pond.
Observation and photography
Do not dig animals out, disturb burrows or transfer spawn. Use careful observation from paths and avoid lighting animals repeatedly.
Sources and further reading
Observe without handling or moving animals, collecting eggs or disturbing shelters. Avoid trampling pond margins. Do not lift cover objects for photographs. Do not treat a short guide as a safe snake-identification or handling manual.