After one of the coldest winters I have ever experienced, it seems that finally the temperatures have begun to rise and the amphibians have left their winter refuges. Only a few days ago night temperatures were still below zero, but as of today the day temperature reached 9C and night was a much improved 5-6C. I visited my local pond to find two amplexus pairs of Common frogs (Rana temporaria) along with a further 20 or so individuals making their way to the pond. I expect the next time it rains this will be enough to bring out every frog in the area in the mass migration towards the breeding pond. Furthermore on turning some stones I found a Palmate newt (Lissotriton helveticus) along with another that had been run over.

Palmate newt (Lissotriton helveticus)

Common frog (Rana temporaria)

Common frog (Rana temporaria)

Common frog (Rana temporaria)