‘You Want Them To Have A Fighting Chance’: The World Of UK Toading

"A night out with the Somerset volunteers helping amphibians cross the road to their mating grounds as populations decline".

"It’s slow-moving but time flies. It’s meditative and weirdly exhausting. There’s jeopardy, exhilaration and the awakening of powerful protective feelings. And, on a good night, there’s cold rain trickling down the back of your neck.

Welcome to the world of toading, where endangered amphibians are rescued from lethal roads as they make their annual nocturnal pilgrimage to their mating grounds.

Charlcombe Toad Rescue, on the edge of Bath, is one of the busiest groups, and particularly hectic on a Thursday night of torrential rain."

Patrick Barkham reports for the Guardian February 19, 2024.