Wildlife

Wild Common Toad: Road Underpasses and Population Connectivity

Toad tunnel systems combined with drift fencing are highly effective at reducing road mortality and maintaining population connectivity.

Key Facts

Common toad populations declined by 68% in the UK between 1985 and 2010
Road mortality during breeding migration is a primary cause of population decline
Amphibian tunnels with drift fencing redirect toads safely under roads
Volunteer bucket brigade schemes save thousands of toads annually at key sites

Welfare Considerations

Toads killed on roads die from traumatic injury. The collective welfare cost of millions of road deaths during spring migration is enormous. Tunnel systems have proven effectiveness rates over 90% at diverting toads away from road surfaces.

What You Can Do

Volunteer with Froglife's night-time toad patrolling and crossing brigades
Advocate for toad tunnel installation at known migration crossing points
Slow down on wet spring nights near ponds when toad migration is active