In our tranquil village of St. Mary Bourne, a heartwarming spectacle unfolds every year as dusk settles in – the migration of toads. These resilient amphibians embark on an extraordinary journey, returning to their ancestral birthplace. Despite facing numerous obstacles along the way, including the main road through St Mary Bourne, the toads persist, driven by an instinctual urge to complete their pilgrimage.
St. Mary Bourne Lake serves as the focal point of this annual migration. The lake holds profound significance for the toads, as it represents not only their breeding ground but also their ancestral home. The tranquil waters provide an ideal habitat for their offspring, ensuring the survival of future generations.
To safeguard this natural spectacle, dedicated volunteers form Toad Patrols, ensuring the safe passage of the toads across perilous roads. Armed with buckets and torches, these guardians vigilantly monitor the migration routes, guiding the toads away from harm’s way. Despite the efforts of Toad Patrols, the migration journey is fraught with dangers, particularly from vehicular traffic. Each year, many toads fall victim to speeding cars, and their pilgrimage is abruptly cut short.
Sustainable Bourne Valley is looking for more volunteers to help us save these resilient and lovable creatures on their journey. If you are passionate about protecting wildlife and would like to join the Toad Patrol in ensuring the safe passage of these incredible amphibians, we welcome you to become a part of our team.
Please email Caroline Hoyes at greenbootz@yahoo.com
