SUNDERLAND ECHO (UK) 25 March 06 A clear road for Mr Toad
Highways bosses have taken the unusual step of closing a road so passionate toads can reach their pond in safety.
For years, hundreds of toads have been flattened as they try to cross a County Durham street to make their way from their hibernation ground to a breeding pond each spring.
But thanks to Durham County Council, their 500m journey should be safer now the cul-de-sac has been closed to traffic for a few days, giving them the chance to reach their destination – without croaking it.
The council's countryside rangers have already tried to help by setting up a rescue service, carrying them across Deadman's Lane in Blackhall when they make the move during the hours of darkness.
The council's ecologist, Terry Coult, said: "The toads hibernate on dry land away from their breeding pond and then in the spring walk about 500 metres back to the pond to breed, usually on the first mild nights in March or April.
"In the past, hundreds of toads have been killed on this short stretch of road for no real reason – the road ends 200m after the toad crossing point.
"Common toads are covered by the Durham Biodiversity Action Plan and they are under threat, with numbers falling across the county.
"We support the Action Plan, and the temporary road closure is part of our commitment and positive attitude to nature conservation in the county.
"We hope that drivers who do use Deadman's Lane will understand that the closure for just a few days is an important element of wildlife conservation in the county.
"By taking action locally, people can do their bit for global wildlife."
A clear road for Mr Toad