For a herpetologist, there is no better season than spring: not only are sunny days back, but amphibians are coming out to the ponds to mate. This means fieldwork can begin! This year, we are screening different sites to test for the presence of the pathogen Batrachochytrium salamandrivorans , and to collect DNA from great crested newts ( Triturus cristatus ) through a non-invasive swabbing method. We also weight the animals and measure their length, and we photograph their b

As the temperatures rise, a remarkable natural event unfolds—thousands of amphibians begin their annual migration toward breeding ponds. In Flanders, this seasonal journey often leads them across busy roads, where many face a deadly challenge. Fortunately, dedicated volunteers from Natuurpunt are stepping in to assist these creatures, ensuring as many as possible reach their destination safely. A Race Against Traffic Every year, passionate nature lovers take to the streets—no

WHG member Jesse is currently carrying out fieldwork in and around the Australia Alps.

There are two types of organisms that enjoy a rainy walk in a pitch dark forest. Do you know which ones? The fire salamanders and the scientists who study fire salamanders :-) Although they look very exotic, the black and yellow fire salamanders are indeed native animals. They can occur locally (in Flanders and Wallonia) in large numbers, if you know where to look. The scientists at Wildlife Health Ghent study various aspects regarding the health of these fascinating animals.