WILDLIFE Friendly Otley, with the help of their enthusiastic and dedicated volunteers, have posted a huge success with this year’s annual migration of toads on East Busk Lane.
Over 50 people of all ages came from far and wide to help the toads cross safely and ensure the future of further generations. All numbers were carefully recorded by trustee Neil Griffin, and he was hugely impressed by the community’s response.
Neil said: "In total we have helped about 2400 toads cross the road. It really is incredible and testament to the support we have received. The migration was drawn out this year due to big variations in temperature. Toads only like to migrate in certain conditions and this year they have been challenged by the weather."
Helping the toads has been a unique opportunity for local residents to experience wildlife at close quarters. It has also been a great opportunity to educate people on the importance of the wildlife habitats in and around the town of Otley. This particular toad crossing would be under serious threat if the East of Otley Development was ever to go ahead.
Neil added: "The data we are collecting is really helping science understand more about the toad populations around the country. It is exactly the kind of thing our group wants to protect and cherish."
If there is anyone who would like any further information on volunteering, then please contact Wildlife Friendly Otley using their email wildlifefriendlyotley@gmail.com
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