Wildlife Trust BCN Update

The Wildlife Trust BCN’s work with people is moving towards a more community-led approach. One local project we have been working on is Papworth Everard’s Toad Patrol. Last spring we trained nine new volunteers who, with support from experienced volunteers from a nearby patrol, rescued over 2,500 amphibians crossing roads on their migration to and from their breeding pond. They were mostly toads, but frogs and newts were using the same pond. We have also supported the team to connect with local land-owners, plan for future years, coordinate buying kit, and consider how to raise awareness of amphibians and the patrol in the local community.

Amphibians are mostly dormant through the colder months but can wake up on warmer days. They may consider heading to their breeding pond in late February or early March, depending on the weather. Some male frogs spend the winter at the bottom of ponds. Amphibian skin is very sensitive, so please only pick up animals that are in immediate danger, and if possible wet your hands or use gloves. Please get in touch if you know of a stretch of road where amphibians are run over in large numbers.

If you are doing, or wanting to do, something to benefit local wildlife or encourage sustainability in your community, please get in touch. You can be an individual, or member of an existing group. Local Wildlife Trust BCN staff might be able to help with advice, training, support, or signposting.

Local enquiries: Rebecca.Neal@wildlifebcn.org | TrumpingtonMeadows@wildlifebcn.org

General enquiries: cambridgeshire@wildlifebcn.org | @wildlifebcn | www.wildlifebcn.org