Toads are on the move for annual migration at Center Parcs Woburn Forest
Visitors to Center Parcs in Woburn Forest might spot some toads on the move as they start their annual migration.
The annual toad migration sees hundreds of the creatures’ journey across woodland paths and village roads, as they aim to return to the ponds where they were born to breed.
The migration typically takes place in late February and throughout March, and is triggered when temperatures rise above 7C, and following periods of rainfall.
Across Center Parcs six UK holiday destinations, including Woburn Forest, conservation rangers actively monitor migration activity and install temporary signage to alert drivers when peak movement begins.
Center Parcs say the migration is both an ‘inspiring wildlife spectacle’ and ‘a critical conservation moment’ as according to The Wildlife Trusts 20 tonnes of toads are killed on roads every year.
Ecology and biodiversity manager at Center Parcs Richard Watson said: “This is one of the most important and vulnerable moments in the toad’s lifecycle.
“They are instinctively returning to the ponds where they were born, which is extraordinary and a real privilege to see this happening within our forests.
“However, it is also a time where we ask our guests to drive slowly, remain vigilant on woodland footpaths and roads, and report high levels of toad activity to village colleagues.”
Sightings of toads are traditionally highest at Center Parcs Sherwood Forest in Nottinghamshire, Longleat Forest in Wiltshire and Elveden Forest in Suffolk.
More than 200 toads have been counted at the lakes in Elveden Forest in the past week, while more than 700 were counted at the site last year.