3 minute read
Helping toads cross roads - safely
from Viewpoint March 2024
by Dorset View
By Louis Pulford
Having grown up as an avid amphibian lover, frogspawn saver, tadpole grower and frog/ toad fan, I learnt about the lifecycle of these amphibians at a young age.
I was fascinated how the little black dot in jelly became a sort of podgy little fish, which then produced legs; the back ones first, followed by the front and then the tail seemingly grew backwards until it disappeared.
Toads were always uncommon and I saw less and less over the years, so when I received an article about Ringwood & Poulner Toad Patrol, I was curious about where they were crossing and how many there are in the local area. After meeting with the motivated team and seeing how passionate these lovely humans are about our amphibious friends, it was clear that being involved with such a heart-warming cause would be a great way to contribute to the local wildlife in the New Forest.
There are three shifts a night, seven days a week during the migration period.
On my second shift, it was a bountiful evening with many highs.
21 toads were crossed to safety and two casualties were found.
Many of the saved toads were pairs, heading to Blashford Lakes to spawn the next generation. Lots of these toads crossed at a slow pace or just sat in the road staring me down, so I do take my hat off to their brazen attitude, but it isn’t doing them any favours being bolshy.
The team of volunteers are a caring group who share similar feelings towards wildlife and biodiversity, each giving their time to patrol and offer safe passage to our fellow travellers. Nicola Yorke is the current orchestrator and can be found supporting teams and making regular trips to the migration area. She said, “We’re really grateful to the many drivers who slow down and stay patient as volunteers pick up the toads and carry them across the road.
“Toads are sadly in decline across the country, so every life is precious.”
Following my experience with Toad Patrol I realise there is no easy solution. It is up to us as protectors of our environment to offer aid, safe passage, slow our driving, keep an eye on the road and educate others.
To find out more visit Ringwood & Poulner Toad Patrol group on Facebook.
