Drivers on the A591 on the outskirts of Keswick are being urged to slow down as the annual frog, toad and newt migration across the road gets underway.
Every year, amphibians move from winter hibernation spots to their breeding ponds and lakes. Some have a straightforward journey, but others risk their lives crossing busy roads.
They only move when the weather is just right, waiting for nights with mild and wet conditions. When that happens, they move en masse, and hundreds can die each night.
There are two popular crossings on the A591 outside Keswick, one near Low Nest Farm heading north out of Keswick and another is near Dodd Wood.
Staff and volunteers at West Cumbria Rivers Trust have been lending a helping hand to the local love-struck wildlife by carrying toads and frogs across the road in a bucket.
A trust spokesman said: “It’s tragic how many animals are being lost here, and it happens year after year. If it is a wet night please slow down in these areas as many more animals have yet to migrate. Over the next few weeks you may see our staff and budding volunteers out after dark with high viz jackets and torches, so please do take care.”
Species helped in the trust’s rescues include Common Frogs, Common Toad, Smooth Newt and Palmate Newt.
Anyone who would like to lend a hand is asked to email [email protected]
.
