It’s time for the big Somerset frog and toad spawn count. Somerset Wildlife Trust says it needs eyes on the ground, or rather in the water, to help it find out how these two “indicator” species are doing.

Understanding the size and location of frog and toad numbers and breeding is really important in helping them, and the wider environment.

Since they and all amphibians absorb water through their skin they are especially vulnerable to water pollutants like pesticides and one of the first to be affected by the degradation of the environment and the impacts of climate change.

They also play a part in the food chain, being the prey of a wide range of other wildlife including herons, otters and grass snakes.

Frogs and toads typically spawn from January to March. Frogs lay spawn in clumps, while toads lay spawn in long “strings”.

The count has started and a link to find out more, download an information pack and record sightings can be found online.

All sightings are important whether in garden ponds or the countryside. Last year in the first year of the count 275 information packs were downloaded.

The trust getting the word out is vital, and schools can play a big part.