Road traffic kills hundreds of thousands of amphibians annually during migration. Toad tunnels and seasonal bucket brigades provide effective mitigation.
Individual toads crossing roads face death from vehicle strike or injury from partial impacts that leave them to die slowly. The welfare significance is multiplied by the scale — a single crossing point may see thousands of toads crossing over two to three weeks each spring. Tunnels must be appropriately designed with smooth internal surfaces, drainage and appropriate dimensions. Drift fencing channels toads into tunnel entrances. Patrol volunteers using bucket brigades provide immediate welfare benefit at crossings awaiting infrastructure investment.