Galloway forest, Scotland
Date: 4th August 2026
Objective: Find and swab frogs (and toads!)
Conditions: Mild and rainy
Species observed: 1 frog, 1 toad, pine marten, red squirrel, great spotted woodpecker, bank vole, chaffinch, coal tit, common lizard.
Samples collected: 1 frog and 1 toad
Reflection:
I took this trip as I was determined to find more anurans in Scotland. It is currently extremely dry in England and I thought I’d have more chance in lush green Scotland. Unfortunately that was not the case! I did however get to see some mammals I’d never seen before. I got to stay in this amazing dome where right outside pine martens and red squirrels would come and feed. I had seen red squirrels before but only on Anglesey and Brownsea Island so it was a treat to see some in Scotland finally. Id also never seen a pine marten before. They look very smart, almost like they are wearing a tuxedo with their little pale bibs.
Little Assynt Estate, Scottish Highlands
Date: 31 July 2026
Objective
Search for common frogs to collect buccal swabs for ranavirus surveillance.
Conditions
Cool with a light breeze and very light rain
Species observed
Common frog ×2
Common toad (Bufo bufo) ×2
Dragonflies & butterflies
Frog orchid, bell heather & heath spotted orchids
Samples collected - 1 buccal swab from frog, 2 from toads
Reflection
After several unsuccessful searches elsewhere in the Highlands, finding even a single common frog felt like a real success. The Little Assynt Estate proved to be full of life, with common toads, dragonflies and the unexpected bonus of a beautiful frog orchid alongside the path. I did spot another frog but he/she was very quick and got away from me! Slightly frustrating but the area was beautiful and I am glad to have visited.
