Here our Reserve Warden, Chantel, recounts her experience of helping out at her local toad patrol in 2022….

In the subdued light I put on lots of layers and double-checked my torch was working. During these essential preparations, I felt like a weird superhero armed with my high vis jacket (or cape if you prefer) and bucket, excited to help the local wildlife.
In the twilight, the toad patrol team walked down the road hearing the coo of an owl and disturbing sleeping muntjac with their torches. I was eagerly awaiting the sight of a toad making its epic journey across the road, though that moment was more exciting than I initially had thought… I could hear a high pitched ‘quark’ and the fallen leaves began to rustle all around me. I shined my torch down onto the woodland floor to see dozens of golden eyes staring back at me, full of determination and crawling through the undergrowth. I turned around to see a toad still on the tarmac, when I picked up this delicate little soul, he clung onto my hand and did not want to let go.
Male toads were hitchhiking on the backs of the females and any male I picked up clung on ready for the hike. The anticipation of the evening did not let me down and from that night I was hooked. I am looking forward to the 2023 Toad Patrol season and being back with a passionate group of people on the Sleaford Toad Patrol.
Want to help out at your local Toad Patrol? Find your nearest one using our Toads on Roads map and get involved!