Efforts are ramping up to protect the Natterjack toad, one of the UK's rarest native amphibians, at the RSPB Hodbarrow nature reserve.

Calling on volunteers, the RSPB’s conservation experts are initiating a number of activities, including toad monitoring as well as litter picking and cleaning signage.

Volunteer sessions are arranged for September 28, October 26, and November 23, with three more planned for January.

The Natterjack toad, known for its distinct loud rasping call, are primarily found in open areas with shallow sandy pools.

However, overgrowth at the ponds in Hodbarrow has hindered their breeding.

By creating clearance, it is hoped the toads will return to breeding, especially as the Hodbarrow’s population is the only native one in an RSPB reserve.

The Natterjack is a European protected species, and whilst numbers have declined in the UK, efforts to save them are reversing the trend.

Volunteers will also have the opportunity to learn about Tern wardening and monitoring rare butterflies.

The efforts are in preparation for the upcoming Iron Line project, commencing in September next year.

Echoing New York’s High Line, the project will allow visitors to walk on the former railway lines used by miners at the iron ore site.

Opening up denser parts of the nature reserve will also serve to benefit numerous rare plants, butterflies, and songbirds, such as Marsh Helleborine, Moonwort, Wild Strawberry, Greyling, and Small Blue, Dingy Skipper, Bee Orchids, Grasshopper Warbler, Lesser Whitethroat, and Rock Pipit.

Non-native invasive plants, like Cotoneaster will be removed to allow the native flora to thrive.

Dave Blackledge, Site Manager at RSPB Hodbarrow, said, “This is an exciting opportunity to improve a hidden gem of Cumbria, reinvigorating its wildlife and creating a place both visitors and local people can enjoy.

"We need help of all kinds to conserve this wonderful landscape – trimming back around paths, cleaning signs, counting birds, watching over the tern colony, maintaining hides, and of course the all-important toad monitoring – if you have a few hours to spare, we’d love to hear from you.

“By clearing pathways, we’ll create just the right habitats for the Natterjack toads and we’re hopeful to see this rarest of species breeding here again in the not-too-distant future. Ultimately, we want to improve the visitor experience, making this special place look as loved and cared for as it deserves.”

Anyone interested in getting involved is urged to sign up via the RSPB website.