“In less than two months, intensive toad migration will begin in Latvia. Toads will awaken from their hibernation sites in forests, parks and farmsteads, and set off towards nearby bodies of water to continue their lineage. However, in many places, the toads' historical migration routes are now crossed by human-built roads; as a result, a large number of toads perish under car wheels before reaching their spawning grounds. Therefore, to assist the toads on this difficult journey, we have launched the campaign “Mission: TOAD. Save the Prince!” and, in preparation for the spring migration, we invite everyone to report any known toad migration sites throughout Latvia,” says the Agency’s senior expert Vilnis Skuja, encouraging participation in the campaign.

Public reports will help the Agency significantly expand the map of toad migration sites and attract volunteer toad rescuers for the social campaign, who will patrol roadsides during the active migration period and help the amphibians cross safely. Along some sections of the toad migration routes, small fences are also planned to be installed, which will help the toads reach their spawning grounds even more safely and effectively.