The American Toads (Bufo americanus) are on the move. In the Roxborough area of Philadelphia, the annual migration has begun.
Toads in Love
Toads migrate to and from their breeding grounds in the woods of the Schuylkill Center for Environmental Education (SCEE) to breed in the Roxborough Reservoir across Hagy’s Mill & Port Royal Roads.
After breeding in shallow water they return to the woods and other places to live.
Where They Live
American Toads live in many places you won’t suspect. From city woodlands, suburban backyards, to remote locations in mountains and forests. But they seem to need shallow water to breed.
So, we can find them migrating to reservoirs, streams, ditches or vernal pools.
They live in soil that contains some moisture. And they need insects and other invertebrates for food.
Helping Toads Cross the Road
Each spring, between mid-March and late-April, temporary road detours are staffed by volunteers during peak migration times to help the toads cross the road.
And they need volunteers to help out. The times the animals migrate are during rush hour traffic and without the volunteers help, end up smashed on these busy streets.
Information to help with donations or time can be found at https://www.facebook.com/ToadDetourAtSchuylkillCenter
More Nature in Spring
Best Articles about Nature in Spring