The European green toad, Bufotes viridis, in Donaufeld (Vienna, Austria): status and size of the population

By

Sistani, Amir
Burgstaller, Stephan
Gollmann, Günter
Landler, Lukas

Type

Article

Date of Publication

2021-11-18

Original Publication

Herpetozoa

Volume

34

Pages

259--264

Subjects

Amphibia , Bufonidae , Conservation , Population ecology , urban environment

Contributed by

Pensoft Publishers

Language

English

Published by

Sofia, Bulgaria Pensoft Publishers

Identifiers

DOI: https://doi.org/10.3897/herpetozoa.34.e75578

 

Abstract

The European green toad, Bufotes viridis (Laurenti, 1768), is a rare and protected species in Vienna. In spring and summer 2020, we conducted a survey to assess size and status of its population in Donaufeld, an agricultural area designated for real estate development. Recaptures of photographically registered toads allowed to estimate the population size with 137 individuals (confidence interval: 104–181). Comparatively large body size indicates the presence of a well-established population. Reproductive success was high in the study year. A mismatch mating of a male B. viridis with a female Bufo bufo was observed. Mitigation measures are needed to support this population facing imminent habitat deterioration.