Andy Ryder
Avon Reptile & Amphibian Group - Toad Patrols
Introduction
Today’s topic => signage
A bit about me
Introduction to the ARAG patrol sites Photo by Ian Wade
The importance of signage
Costs and ongoing support
Other examples from around the World
Questions?
A Bit About Me
Joined ARAG 2009
First patrol started in 2010
Lived in France between 2013 & 2016
Approaching 500 species Worldwide
ARAG Patrol Sites (1/3) => Fishponds
Revival of an old patrol unmanned since the 90’s
Patrol area includes local roads and a cycle path
Average ~1,000 amphibians per year during migration
The locals….!
Signage solution & support (BCCC & BZ)
Fishponds Sign Design
ARAG Patrol Sites (2/3) => Bitton
Very stable group with a lot of social interaction
Huge numbers of amphibians each year
Large patrol area including multiple waterbodies & amphibian movement in all directions
A bolt hole
Signage solution & insurance
ARAG Patrol Sites (3/3) => Chew
Remote location on a very fast road – B3114
Amphibian numbers very variable year-to-year
Vast lake and large patrol areas to cover
Volunteer recruitment is challenging; retention even more so
Bristol Water funding support
Chew Sign Design
The Importance of Signage
Raise awareness of the toads!
Raise awareness of the volunteers & safety
Helping new volunteers find the location
Marketing for potential new volunteers
Sense of community
Costs and Ongoing Support
If possible ‘piggyback’ existing posts
Without posts, costs are ~£650
Once erected, signs are covered by local council’s insurance policy
Local community & stakeholder sponsorship
Examples From Around The World
ARAG Results Avon Toad Patrol Results 2010 => 2018
In Year Total
Cumulative Total
8,000
35,000 31,981
7,000
6,707
30,000
344
6,000
5,675
559
25,000
178
4,942
5,000
204 958
4,000
4,560 176
835
20,000
4,255 208
743
792
3,303
15,000
261
3,000
5,804
535
10,000
4,662
2,000
3,780
1,386 1,016
1,000 0
97 5
137
914
2010
2011
5 1 131
168 82
3,641
3,255
2,507
5,000
1,136
2012
Toads
2013
Frogs
2014
Newts
2015
2016
Total
2017
Cumul ative Tota l
2018
0
Questions?