Toad Safaris
During February 2024 half term week over 200 Toads were transported to the Kingston Hill Fields pond from Kingston Ridge, Juggs Lane, Church Lane and the track to KHF. The safaris were organised by Grahame Mayo and advertised on The Kingston Massive WhatsApp group. Around 50 people took part over the course of the week. Everyone, children and adults alike had a fascinating time, learning about the toads life cycle, their mating habits and assisting the toads to safety. The safaris took place early each evening when the toads are active. During the breeding season in early spring, toads migrate to the pond in which they were spawned, to find a mate and reproduce. Male toads arrive first and wait for females at these ponds, although some choose to ambush the females on the way, jumping on their backs mid-journey (https://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/trees-woods-and-wildlife/animals/reptiles-and-amphibians/common-toad/). Many Toads have been squashed by vehicles in previous years, this year thanks to the Toad Safaris very few died.
