Toads & Wildlife
The species most affected by road crossings during spring migration
Why Common Toads Matter
Common toads play an important role in the local ecosystem by controlling insect populations and supporting biodiversity.
Populations across the UK have declined due to habitat loss, road traffic and changes in land use. Protecting migration routes helps maintain stable local populations.
Toads vs Frogs
It can be difficult to tell the difference between toads and frogs, especially at night. Toads tend to walk rather than hop, move more slowly, and travel further during migration, which makes roads particularly dangerous for them. The points below highlight some simple ways to tell them apart.
Toads
- Dry, bumpy skin
- Walk rather than hop
- Travel long distances during migration
Frogs
- Smooth, moist skin
- Hop and jump
- Stay closer to water
Other Wildlife on Five Gates Lane
Five Gates Lane and the surrounding countryside support a wide range of local wildlife throughout the year. The mix of hedgerows, woodland edges, grassland and ponds creates an important corridor for animals moving between habitats.
Alongside toads and frogs, volunteers and residents may also spot:
Mammals
• Deer crossing between woodland and fields
• Hedgehogs moving between hedgerows
• Foxes and stoats travelling along field edges and rural lanes
• Small mammals such as mice and volesAmphibians
• Newts, particularly during damp eveningsBirds and bats
• Bats feeding over fields and water
• Owls and other birds active at dusk
Extra care when travelling along the lane helps protect not just migrating toads, but the wider wildlife that relies on this area.
