Britain's common toads have begun their annual spring migration, a perilous journey that puts them at increased risk from roads, habitat loss, and climate change. Conservationists are urging the public to help protect these amphibians, which are a gardener's best friend due to their appetite for pests.
According to a study published last year by Dr Silviu Petrovan and colleagues, the UK's common toad population declined by 41% between 1985 and 2021. Road mortality is a major factor, as toads migrate at dusk during rush hour. Habitat loss, pollution, declining invertebrate prey, and warmer winters also threaten their numbers.
Volunteer 'toad patrols' across the country help toads cross roads safely. Since Froglife began recording in 1974, patrols have assisted over 2 million toads. One patrol in Bath has reduced the casualty rate from 60% to 3% by closing a half-mile stretch of road for six weeks each spring. Volunteers collect data and move toads in buckets.
Building a pond in your garden can also make a significant difference. 'The first inch of water you add to your garden is the most biodiverse,' says Jenny Tse-Leon of Froglife. Even small ponds provide essential breeding habitat for toads and other wildlife.
To get involved, find your nearest toad patrol on the Froglife website or consider starting one. With simple actions, we can help reverse the decline of these charismatic creatures.
