Frogs & Toads Of Yateley, Frogmore & Darby Green
Normally solitary, toads emerge in early spring – from February through April – to make their way back to the same breeding ponds they’ve used for generations. Hundreds can be on the move at once, crossing fields, gardens… and often, roads.
Unfortunately, many don’t survive the journey. Busy roads and fast-moving cars turn these ancient migrations into deadly crossings. Toad populations have been falling across the country, and road deaths at key crossing sites are a major reason why.
What is the answer?
One way we can assist with this problem is the “Toad Patrol” project – this is a team of dedicated individuals who help the toads during peak crossing times, on warm (> 5oC) and wet evenings during the spring migration. These ‘toad patrollers’ gather up the migrating toads and other amphibians, put them in buckets, and transport them safely to the other side of the road. Simple, yet effective!
How can our community help?
Our multi-level group offers exciting opportunities for people of all ages to engage with nature and contribute valuable data to our records while also helping to protect and hopefully increase their numbers in and around Yateley, Frogmore, and Darby Green. Choose which level you’d like to join and sign up below!
Level One: Spot Amphibian Activity in Your Garden Pond – Suitable for: Younger children and families
We invite you and your family to observe amphibian activity in your garden pond or a neighbour’s pond. This activity is perfect for inspiring a lifelong appreciation of amphibians while helping us gather important data. Keep an eye out for frogs and toads, and note any sightings in our records.
Level Two: Monitor a Local Pond – Suitable for: Older children and families
Take your involvement a step further by adopting a local pond. Visit regularly to record spawn and amphibian activity. This activity not only fosters a deeper connection with nature but also contributes vital information for our data collection.
Level Three: Patroller – Suitable for: Adults and supervised teenagers
On damp evenings when the temperature reaches around 6 degrees Celsius, patrollers visit identified crossing points to help move frogs and toads out of the road, ensuring they safely reach their spawning ponds. Patrollers collect data on the number of frogs, toads, males, females, and any fatalities. Participation requires signing up to acknowledge receipt of a Risk Assessment and a commitment to adhere to safety points.
Level Four: Crossing Coordinator – Suitable for: Adults and supervised teenagers
Crossing Coordinators play a crucial role in recruiting patrollers and coordinating their activities. As a coordinator, you’ll help organize patrols and ensure the smooth operation of our monitoring efforts. Like patrollers, coordinators must sign up to acknowledge receipt of a Risk Assessment and commit to adhering to safety points.
Join us in making a difference for our local amphibian populations. Whether you’re a young child with a curious mind, a teenager eager to contribute, or an adult passionate about wildlife conservation, there’s a role for everyone in our Frog and Toad Monitoring Group.
Email the project coordinator at amphibians@yateleysociety.org.uk today and be part of this exciting community effort!
