News

Green cross toad: Richmond drivers urged to take caution while hundreds pass for breeding season

Summary:

Part of Church Road will close to for the safety of the Ham Common amphibians.

Image:

By SWLondoner staff

Residents of Ham, Richmond, are being asked to keep their eyes peeled for some unexpected pedestrians in the next few weeks.

It is expected that hundreds of toads from Ham Common are currently breeding and will make their way from their habitat to pools on the other side of the road to spawn for about two weeks.

To ensure their safety, a small section of Church Road, between Ham Gate Avenue and Latchmere Lane, will be closed from 4pm on Friday March 15 until 8am on Monday April 1.

Temporary signs have been put up by the Council to warn people of the diversion.

Councillor Chris Harrison, Richmond Council Cabinet Member for Highways, said:

“Our green spaces and lively wildlife habitats make our borough so special. We all have a responsibility to make sure this is sustained.

“This migration is driven by the weather as the toads like warm, wet conditions. So whilst it will be difficult for us to predict exact dates and times, we will do our best to avoid inconvenience for the public. I would like to thank the residents in the area for their understanding and hope that they go out and watch the toads on their daily journey.” 

Photo courtesy of Rastoney, with thanks. 

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