This species is closely associated with meadows and open oak (Quercus) forests, most often in sandy areas. It is not very adaptable. Reproduction and larval development generally takes place in temporary waterbodies (most often stream habitats), occasionally in permanent waterbodies; larval development is relatively long in this species and may last more than one season. Clutch size varies from 28-149 eggs (Pinya and Pérez-Mellado 2014).

This species is restricted to southern and eastern Portugal and western and central Spain, from 100-1,300 m asl (Gasc et al. 1997, Pleguezuelos 1997, Pleguezuelos et al. 2002, Godinho et al. 1999, Arnold 2003, Malkmus 2004).

Conservation Actions In-Place
This species is known to occur in Cabañeros and Doñana National Parks, in Spain, and is listed on Appendix II of the Bern Convention, and on Annex IV of the EU Habitats Directive. It is protected by national legislation in Spain and is recorded in a number of national and sub-national Red Data Books.

Conservation Needed
Further habitat protection is required, as is continued protection by existing protected areas.

Research Needed
Given the potential future threat of chytridiomycosis this species should be monitored closely.