Attention, amphibians on the move: This is how you can help frogs and toads!

Attention, amphibians on the move: This is how you can help frogs and toads!

Autumn has arrived and with it the migration of amphibians. Toads, frogs and newts are on the way to their winter quarters and often cross roads, which poses a great danger to the animals. The Nature Conservation Association (Nabu) appeals to citizens to be particularly attentive during this time in order to help the sensitive animals and avoid accidents. The Rhine Palatinate reports that, in contrast to the much more well-known spring hike, the autumn hike is often not in the public eye.

As temperatures drop, they head to hiding places such as crevices, mouse holes and cavities to find frost protection, often leading to challenges. In cold weather, the amphibians fall into a kind of hibernation state, which greatly minimizes their body functions. What is tragic is that they can end up in drains, gullies and light wells, where they either drown or cannot escape. To prevent this, Nabu advises property owners to cover potential traps with fine-mesh nets.

The activity of amphibians

It is important to know that amphibians are particularly active in darkness, mild temperatures and light rain and can travel several kilometers. Common toads and various species of frogs are particularly common in the Rhine-Palatinate district, while fire salamanders are not native to this region. The common toads often live for several years and need up to a year to reach sexual maturity. This information highlights the importance of a protected habitat, which is increasingly threatened by intensive farming, drought and environmental toxins.

One way gardeners can help these animals is to create small ponds with shallow banks and aquatic plants that are particularly inviting to the amphibians. But it's not just the living space that is important - safety measures on the roads are also essential. Therefore, it is strongly recommended to drive carefully during the amphibious migration.

The time of amphibian migration

Depending on the weather, the autumnal migration can last until the end of November and requires a collective commitment from the population. In the spirit of sustainable nature conservation, various initiatives can help ensure that many amphibians reach their winter quarters safely. From the experiences of the Nature Conservation Association in Lower Austria, where similar protection campaigns have already taken place in the spring months, we can learn how important the protection of amphibians is. Volunteers are also active in these regions to bring the animals safely over dangerous roads, which impressively shows how collective action leads to positive changes.

By taking action together, we can show a good hand for nature and protect the impressive amphibian species in our region. Your well-being is in our hands, and every small action can make a difference.