VOLUNTEERS are needed over the next few months to protect the lives of toads crossing the busy Gloucestershire roads.

Last spring 1,700 toads were saved around the Stroud district by over 70 volunteer toad patrollers helping them cross the roads.

This year Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust needs more help from volunteers.

Patrollers are required to head out on mild evenings between February and April, wearing a high visibility jacket to keep an eye on known toad crossings and help them across the road in a bucket. The Trust even runs optional training sessions for those who would like to hear more.

Each year thousands of toads migrate back to the ponds where they were born. On their journey they are looking for a mate so they can breed once again back at the pond.

However, many don’t make it and their 12 year lifespan is cut brutally short due to traffic.

Members of the Trust want to know of any toad crossing points and if anyone has time to help keep an eye on it and report when the toads are crossing.

For more information on becoming a toad patroller contact ellen.winter@gloucestershirewildlifetrust.co.uk or 01452 383333.