frogs and toads

Common Frog (c) Luke Massey/2020Vision

What do frogs, toads and newts eat?

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Amphibians are creatures of two worlds, at home both in the water and on land. Toads, frogs and even newts are regular garden visitors, especially if you have a pond - though they can turn up even if you don't! They all depend on water for breeding, laying their eggs in pools and ponds. But once that important business is over, the adults leave the water and hunt for prey on dry land.

They feed on flies, slugs, worms and whole host of other invertebrates. You'll often find them in damp patches of long grass, log piles or other sheltered corners. Later in summer, the growing young (known as toadlets, froglets and efts) will also leave the water and roam gardens in search of food.

Providing food for amphibians (aside from creating a pond, of course) is all about making sure there are as many invertebrates in your garden as possible. Let a wild patch grow, with long grass, log piles and wildflowers. As well as offering a feast, this will provide amphibians with a sheltered spot to spend the winter.