Hengistbury Head natterjack toads star in BBC TV show Springwatch with Iolo Williams

A TOAD which makes “loud, raspy calls” at a Christchurch beauty spot was the star of the BBC’s Springwatch programme.

Presenter Iolo Williams observed the natterjack toad at Hengistbury Head.

Prior to the visit, he said: “I’m really looking forward to going to Hengistbury Head to see the amazing wildlife there. Nightjars, White tailed eagles and natterjack toads are all fascinating species and some great conservation work to celebrate too.”

Iolo was on hand to see the natterjack, which is smaller than the more widespread common toad and sports a yellow line down its back.

A largely nocturnal species, it is also known as “the running toad,” due to its scurrying habit as it hunts down insect prey.

It was recorded at Hengistbury Head up until the 1950s when it disappeared. But it is now thriving again after it was reintroduced from Sandy, Bedfordshire, to Dorset in 1989.

The species is strictly protected by British law which makes it an offence to kill, injure, capture, or disturb them, damage or destroy their habitat, or possess them or sell or trade them in any way. Anyone photographing or filming them must have a licence.

Cllr Hadley, portfolio holder for climate response, environment and energy, BCP Council said: “The success of the rare natterjack toads at Hengistbury Head is testament to the great environmental and conservation work that the Hengistbury rangers, volunteers and external partners do throughout the year.

Over a million people visit Hengistbury Head every year hoping to see some of the wildlife including birds such as stonechats, meadow pipits, Dartford warblers and nightjars.

The Springwatch team also filmed at Christchurch Harbour where there are many different types of birds and 33 species of butterfly.

The episodes are available to watch on the iPlayer.