Toad Patrol

Every February and March, thousands of toads are squashed on Britain's roads as they return to their traditional breeding ponds and ditches. There used to be about 20 crossings in the area covered by the old County of Avon; now we are down to only a few. The loss is blamed on increased traffic, land development and changes in pond management.

Mary Wood, of the Avon Wildlife Trust's toad rescue project, is determined that the few remaining toads should be protected: 'Each year local volunters form patrols to rescue the animals from the traffic on the roads and deliver them to safety. But, there are never enough volunteers! Can you spare a few hours to help?'

Help is particularly needed at Fishponds and Shirehampton in Bristol, Charlecombe Lane in Bath, Temple Cloud in B&NES, Clevedon and Yatton in North Somerset.

Mary adds: 'Volunteers are needed over a 6 week period, on mild damp evenings. Wearing bright clothes and armed with bucket and torch they patrol the road and pick up toads, depositing them in a safe place closer to the pond or ditch. No skills are needed, just a sympathy for vulnerable animals. Full training will be provided!