Delivery method: Blended learning with an optional in person session in Llysdinam on 21/03/2026.

From giant 2m-long Giant Salamander to the smallest vertebrae, a fingernail-sized frog, amphibians are fascinating.

Course Description

From giant 2m-long Giant Salamander to the smallest vertebrae, a fingernail-sized frog, amphibians are fascinating. They are unique in many aspects of their development, physiology and ecology and have wide-reaching importance in both the human environment and aquatic community structures. Globally, amphibians’ diversity and numbers are under extreme threat through habitat fragmentation, viral and fungal diseases, water course management and exploitation. 
 
During this module, students will learn to identify common British amphibians at all life stages and gain practical experience of identification and using field survey methods. The module will also cover threats to species and habitats as well as legal protection. 

The optional in-person teaching will occur over one day and be at Llysdinam, near Newbridge-on-Wye, Llandrindod Wells. There is a convenient bus service Aberystwyth to Newbridge-on-Wye return. X75 leaves Aber 8.58, change to X47 at Llangurig, arrives Newbridge 10.32. Return X47 Newbridge 15.54, change to X75 at Llangurig, arrives Aberystwyth 17.46.