A variable spring of long periods of very dry hot weather divided by short periods of intense rainfall may have somewhat confused the toads on their regular crossings to and from breeding grounds in 2007. Toads remain loyal to the same crossing sites each year and unfortunately this means crossing roads. The sight of squashed toads on roads is unpleasant and in 2007 BWT and other members of the BRARG group received a number of reports ranging from a few toads squashed on back roads to hundreds of toads killed on main roads where the animals have no chance against frequent fast travelling vehicles.

Members of BRARG carry out toad patrols in areas where problems were found in 2007 & 2008. We are working with with Powys County Council to find ways to remedy this problem. In order to do this we are keeping a record of all sites where toads are being squashed on the roads. If you know of a toad crossing please e-mail blewis@brecknockwildlifetrust.org.uk with its location, preferably with a six figure grid reference, and a rough idea of the numbers of toads and frogs killed or moved.

For more information about toads on roads and what you can do to save them visit the Froglife website