Amphibians of Europe
Europe is home to approximately 85 amphibian species, including frogs, toads (Anura), salamanders and newts (Caudata). This list includes only a few representatives from each group. Each one perfectly illustrates the needs of similar species.
Fire salamander
(Salamandra salamandra)
The fire salamander is typically found in mixed forests across Europe, relying on moist, shady habitats. There are around 14 recognized subspecies in Europe. It needs slow-flowing forest streams with small pools for larval development except one subspecies. Its range extends from the Iberian Peninsula to the western edge of Kazakhstan. Species with similar ecological needs include for example the marbled newt (Triturus marmoratus) and the palmate newt (Lissotriton helveticus).
Alpine newt
(Ichthyosaura alpestris)
The alpine newt is typically found in humid, forested, or montane areas across central and southern Europe. There are several recognized subspecies. For breeding, it relies on clean, still or slow-flowing water bodies such as ponds or forest pools, with abundant aquatic vegetation where eggs are laid. Its range extends from the Iberian Peninsula to the western Balkans and parts of western Asia. Species with similar ecological needs include the smooth newt (Lissotriton vulgaris) and the great crested newt (Triturus cristatus).
European tree frog
(Hyla arborea)
The European tree frog is typically found in warm, sunny habitats with nearby vegetation and access to still or slow-flowing water bodies. It prefers meadows, forest edges, and wetlands with dense shrubs or tall grasses. For breeding, it relies on shallow ponds or ditches with abundant aquatic vegetation where eggs are laid. In fact, it is an ecological rarity in Europe—no other frog species on the continent shares the same unique combination of arboreal lifestyle and specific habitat requirements.
Yellow-bellied toad
(Bombina variegat)
The yellow-bellied toad is a small, poisonous amphibian known for its striking yellow and black marbled belly, which it displays in a defensive posture when threatened, it is called the unkenreflex. It inhabits lowland to hilly areas across central and southeastern Europe. This species thrives in ephemeral water bodies like garden ponds, muddy ruts, and rain-filled depressions, that are often those created by heavy forestry machinery. Unlike many other amphibians, it prefers temporary, sunlit pools with minimal vegetation, which warm up quickly and lack predators. It shares some ecological traits with true toads (Bufo species)
European common frog
Rana temporaria
The common frog is due to its ability to hybridize with other Rana species very special amphibian. As a result, very few people can accurately identify whether an individual is a pure species or a hybrid. These frogs are excellent jumpers and, although they are among the most widespread amphibians in Europe, their populations have been declining rapidly in recent years. The main reasons include intensive clear cut forestry, and the loss of essential overwintering sites and breeding grounds. Common frogs require mixed forests with low vegetation, a thick layer of leaf litter, and decaying wood. They breed in temporary puddles, forest and garden ponds, and wetlands, all of which are disappearing in many landscapes.