Toad crossing campaign 2008

[dampflippers]

don't know if you have heard, but Froglife http://www.froglife.org/ and ARG UK have a toad crossing campaign this year http://www.froglife.org/ToadsOnRoads/ToR.htm
http://www.froglife.org/FAS/FAS3.pdf

They want to know where toad crossing patrols are already in existence, where toad patrols are needed ie roads where toads need to cross a road to get to their breeding pond, and they need volunteers in all areas of the UK to organise and/or help with toad patrols.

Do please read the website and sign up if you can.

[alison]

You always give us great information. I don't know where we have any toad crossings near me unfortunately. I hope they all do survive though.

[dampflippers]

Last night we had the first rain for a few weeks here, so I went out to an a road that goes through the middle oF a wetland area (Boldon Flats).
As I drove along I spotted something crossing the road. I found a safe place to park, and went back with a torch. Too late! (several cars had been past).
I walked further and there were at least 6 spatted amphibians. I THINK they were frogs not toads, but this morning I will walk along the same road to do a count and see if I can see if any are toads.
Leter in the evening I had to drive along a residential road where I have seen frogs during rain before. There were quite alot, so I'm sure alot will have been splatted.

So- a request to you all- make the time this weekend to walk along (carefully) any roads where you know there are ponds, to see if there are splatted toads. If there are, please let Froglife know (link in top message). And if you are in the north east, please let me know via PM or email, and I will pass the info on to our amphibian and reptile group.