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The Guardian - UK
The Guardian - UK
Environment
Jamie Grierson

Toads risk their lives crossing a Somerset road to mate. This year, a patrol rescued thousands

Toad lit by light on road surface
Toad on Charlcombe Lane in Bath during the 2025 patrol. Photograph: Courtesy Charlcombe Toad Rescue Group

Why did the toad cross the road? To get to the other side, of course. But also, to reproduce.

Nearly 4,000 toads, frogs and newts have been rescued as they tried to cross one of only five roads closed for the migration season in the UK each year to reach a breeding lake on the other side.

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