Volunteers Needed to Assist Toads Across High-Traffic Roads in Russian Wildlife Sanctuary

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Ever wondered why the toad crossed the road? Well, it's because caring volunteers were there to assist and ensure its safety from passing vehicles.

And this is why a Russian nature reserve is looking for people to help its local toads traverse a busy road later this year.

The toads have to cross the road to reach a lake where they lay their eggs.

The toads have to cross the road to reach a lake where they lay their eggs.

Telegram

The Sestroretsk Swamp reserve is getting ready for the gray toads' seasonal migration. St. Petersburg's Committee for Environmental Management, Environmental Protection, and Environmental Safety announced on its Telegram channel that they are now accepting registrations from volunteers to assist the amphibians.

The northern marsupial mole is rarely seen.

The northern marsupial mole is rarely seen.

Kanyirninpa Jukurrpa via X

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When the weather warms up, the toads start their mating season. They migrate from the forests to the eastern shore of the Sestroretsk Reservoir to lay eggs. After that, they make their way back to the forest, which is around 30 kilometers (18.6 miles) north of St. Petersburg.

Unfortunately, there is a road on their migration route that poses a danger to the toad population. To protect the toads and ensure their population thrives, the reserve calls for volunteers every year. These volunteers assist the toads in safely reaching their spawning grounds.

Volunteers at the reserve must register and undergo training before assisting the toads to cross the road. It is important for citizens without proper training not to touch the toads to avoid causing harm to them.

Editor's P/S:

I find the efforts of the Russian nature reserve to protect the toads' migration to be heartwarming. It is inspiring to see the dedication of volunteers and the reserve staff who work tirelessly to ensure the safety of these amphibians. Each individual toad contributes to the overall health and balance of the ecosystem. By providing assistance, volunteers play a crucial role in preserving biodiversity and promoting the sustainable functioning of the natural world.

Moreover, the article emphasizes the importance of proper training before interacting with wildlife. The reserve's guidelines ensure that volunteers are equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills to handle the toads safely and avoid causing them distress. This highlights the need for responsible human behavior when engaging with wildlife and the value of respecting and understanding the boundaries of other species.