Efforts to protect Warminster’s toad population have resulted in no recorded deaths on a key section of Smallbrook Road during its seasonal night-time closure this year.
The road was closed between 5pm and 5am from February until the end of April under a Traffic Regulation Order (TRO) to protect migrating toads travelling to breeding ponds, in the second year of the scheme.
“There have been very few fatalities recorded, and notably none at all on the stretch of road where access has been restricted,” said Amy Darbyshire, Sustainable Warminster co-chair.
“That’s a real achievement, and much of the credit goes to local motorists, whose patience and care have made a genuine difference.”
During the closure period, volunteers regularly patrol the road, carefully moving toads to safety to help them complete their journey. They also record sightings to help monitor local populations.
“It hasn’t all been encouraging,” said Amy. “Overall, toad numbers are down this year, which is worrying for the long-term health of the population. And while the main migration has passed, the story doesn’t end here. In the coming weeks, tiny toadlets will begin emerging and making their own journeys, often crossing roads on warm summer evenings.”
Volunteers will continue evening patrols to help the toadlets on their journeys, with the patrol urging drivers to avoid Smallbrook Road after dark where possible.
“The scale of the risk to these tiny amphibians is significant. In one instance last summer, 122 baby toads were recorded dead after just six cars passed through the area,” said Amy. “Due to their minute size, drivers are often completely unaware of their presence. Toad patrollers hope the community will continue to support their efforts by leaving Smallbrook Road to the toads during this critical time.”
For more information on the Warminster Toad Patrol, visit sustainablewarminster.co.uk/toad-patrol.
