Running Toads

A simple quiz to help you identify one runner from another!

If you go running along the coast tonight you could have a big surprise! Well, that is if you head to Ainsdale in Merseyside where the coast line provides beautiful areas to run with woodlands and sand dunes.

The Natterjack Toad is also known as the “running toad” and is a rare protected species. It has a distinctive run instead of hopping like other toads. It is much faster than the common toad and able to forage an area more efficiently. In Britain it occurs only near sea-level and is restricted to a few specialised habitats with warm, sandy soils where it can burrow easily. One of the areas where the Natterjack Toad can be found in appreciable numbers is along this coast.

In much greater numbers, however, you may find the “running person”. Over the years, many top class international runners have used this area as a training ground. Many other runners just enjoy the beautiful scenery and the challenge of running off-road. Not far away, just down the road in Southport is the specialist running shop, The Natterjack Running Centre and you will often find owner, Darrell Soden and members of his staff out on a run through the dunes. To help you distinguish one kind of runner from another have a go at this simple quiz!

 

1. Where on the runner is the bright yellow positioned?

A In a stripe along the back

B On a bib on the front and back

 

2. How would you describe the running legs?

A Short and powerful

B Fairly long with good endurance

 

3. How would you describe the running action?

A Centre of gravity close to the ground using a scurrying action

B Higher centre of gravity with a loping action

 

4. When did you observe the runner?

A After dark

B Sunday morning

5. What bodily fluids were excreted?

A Deterrent toxins from parotoid gland

B Moisture from the skin

 

6. Did the runner make any sound?

A rrrRup rrrRup rrrRup

B hi hher hi hher hi hher hi hher

 

7. What did the runner refuel with?

A. Moths, spiders, woodlice, snails and worms

B. Energy gels and isotonic drinks

Mostly A's? You have almost certainly spotted a rare Natterjack Toad. Score 10 points and look out for the next little runbritain quiz, as 100 points = AA batteries to keep your head torch operational.

Mostly B's? You have almost certainly spotted the staff from Natterjack Running Centre on their long Sunday run. Score 2 points and head along to the store to get top tips on sand dune technique.