Conservation of a population of common midwife toads

2024

In spring 2018, a population of common midwife toads (Alytes obstetricans) was discovered, a year after the development of the Differentiated Management Plan.

Given that this amphibian species is threatened with extinction in Switzerland and had not been observed in the area for over 30 years, its conservation became a priority. It is crucial to preserve the structures and conditions favourable to the maintenance of the species, namely the dry stone walls and the bases of parasols on the terrace to the southwest of the Abbey, where these animals seek shelter. Cementing these walls or relocating the parasol bases, under which some individuals have found refuge, must be avoided.

The body of water, approximately 250 m2 in size, located south of the terrace, is likely the habitat where the tadpoles of the common midwife toad develop. It is therefore essential to maintain this body of water as close as possible to its natural state, refrain from introducing fish (which prey on tadpoles), avoid chemical treatments, and minimise frequent drying out. Preserving this species requires only a little care and entails no financial cost.