Loads of toads cross Gorley Road – drive with caution

Ringwood Toad Patrol picked up and saved 91 toads along Gorley Road on 17 March. Despite volunteers best efforts there were still fatalities.

On Saturday night there were even more toads crossing the road as it was raining.  The warm weather coupled with the rain were ideal conditions for the amphibians and the patrol managed to pick up over 500. Nonetheless many toads still died a slow painful death due to careless drivers running them over.

Toads will only cross the road from dusk until dark and when it is above 5 degrees Celsius.  They move to the lakes to spawn and are currently out en masse.

The toad patrol has issued a plea to all drivers travelling along the Gorley Road -from Poulner school to the Alice Lisle, and the surrounding roads, to slow down and avoid killing toads. Those drivers who don't want to be held up by volunteers clearing the road of toads should avoid the area completely. There will be long delays during this busy toad crossing period. If you must drive along this road, please be patient.
 
Toads are a valuable part of our local ecosystem and they need protecting as they are in decline.

If you would like to volunteer to join the toad patrol to help save the toads please call 01425 478891.