The yellow-bellied toad Bombina variegata is a species of amphibian native to Europe, and is considered threatened. Drainage of forest ditches and logging operations at any time of year are highly disruptive to yellow-bellied toad populations. In a hostile environment, these animals experience accelerated ageing, and a shorter generation time than in a preserved habitat. But in some cases, a rare phenomenon helps them to resist: compensatory recruitment. The excess mortality of adults is offset by an increase in reproduction, and better survival of young individuals. This phenomenon is 93% higher in populated areas than in natural habitats.