Toads on our campus

Spring is on its way, bringing with it a fascinating yet fragile natural phenomenon: the amphibian migration. As temperatures rise and nights become damp, thousands of toads, frogs, and newts awaken from their winter hibernation. Driven by instinct, they embark on a perilous journey to their breeding waters. However, busy roads cross their path, and without assistance, many wouldn’t make it. The involvement of volunteers and scientists is crucial in protecting these vulnerable species.

World Biodiversity Day 2024 marked the start of various activities on the University of Twente campus to share knowledge and enthusiasm about biodiversity. The 6th article in this series focuses on the migration of the Bufo bufo (common toad).

Anne te Koppele takes great joy in connecting people with nature. Thanks to the efforts of volunteers, the working group has expanded its activities to three different areas, also Enschede-North.

The group is not only about science and conservation—it’s also a great opportunity to meet your neighbours and other residents if you’re new to the municipality, explore nature in a fun way with your children, or simply enjoy some fresh air while contributing to a meaningful cause. 

What species might you encounter?

We distinguish the following amphibians: the Common frog (Rana temporaria), Green frog (Pelophylax, Common toad (Bufo bufo), Smooth newt (Lissotriton vulgaris) and the Great crested newt (Triturus cristatus). We encourage volunteers to take photos of the specimens they encounter, helping us identify and distinguish between various species of frogs and newts.

The common toad (Bufo bufo) in the Netherlands is facing a significant decline. Since 2008, the population has declined by more than 50 per cent in more than 100 transfers.

Causes of the decline:
Loss and fragmentation of habitat: Urban development, agricultural expansion and infrastructure lead to the disappearance and fragmentation of natural habitats, leaving toads with fewer suitable habitat and breeding areas.
Traffic mortality: During the annual toad migration, toads cross roads on their way to breeding waters, resulting in a high number of traffic casualties. Partly due to the construction of new roads and changes in infrastructure.
Climate change: Changes in temperature and precipitation patterns disrupt toads' natural habitat and reproductive cycles. High temperatures also increase activity, causing toads to consume too much energy and hibernate too little.
Desiccation and pollution: Habitat desiccation and the presence of pollutants reduce habitat quality, which is detrimental to the toad population.

It is essential to address the causes of decline and intensify protection of the common toad in the Netherlands.

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How does it work?

The amphibian migration typically occurs between late January and late April. It depends on factors like temperature, humidity, and wind. When conditions are right, volunteers walk along roads to help the amphibians cross safely and count their numbers. The results are shared with RAVON, the Dutch organization for reptiles and amphibians, as well as the municipality of Enschede. This collaboration helps address issues like roadworks. For example, if work is planned at a key crossing point, we explore the possibility of installing toad tunnels to ensure the safe passage of the amphibians.


Photo: Anne te Koppele

Join us at the University of Twente!

The Amphibian Working Group of Enschede-North is dedicated to the conservation of toads. Their efforts include routes near the University of Twente, such as the Witbreukweg and Langenkampweg. Saturday, February 1, at 10am, toad fencing will also be installed for the first time on Witbreuks Road by the working group. These fences, which extend 5–10 centimeters into the ground, guide toads along their path without crossing the road. Buckets are placed every 5–10 meters along the fence. The toads follow the fence until they fall into a bucket, which volunteers check daily to ensure a safe crossing.

At the start of 2025, we’re hosting a kick-off/demo event at the end of the workday—and you’re warmly invited to join! This is a great opportunity to learn more about our work and find out how you can contribute to protecting these amazing animals. Want to help set up the toad fencing? It promises to be an enjoyable afternoon.

Do you want to be there? Then sign up by emailing us at bestuur@paddentrekboekelo.nl. We’d love to see you there!

When do we head out?

  • After sunset, when twilight begins
  • With >75% chance of rain
  • When temperatures are 8°C or higher
  • When there’s little to no wind
  • January, February, March, and April

What to bring?

  • Safety vest
  • Flashlight
  • Gloves
  • Plastic bucket

Want to learn more about how it works? Visit our page to watch informative videos.


Photo: Anne te Koppele

Sources:
The Hague Party for the Animals
https://denhaag.partijvoordedieren.nl/vragen/schriftelijke-vragen-laat-padden-en-kikkers-niet-in-de-put-zitten
Compendium for the Living Environment (CLO).
https://www.clo.nl/indicatoren/nl107708-aantalsontwikkeling-van-amfibieen
BNNVARA Vroege Vogels
https://www.bnnvara.nl/vroegevogels/artikelen/gewone-pad-keldert-achteruit
Green Knowledge Network
https://groenkennisnet.nl/nieuwsitem/reptielen-amfibieen-en-vissen-in-nederland-ravon-balans-2023

Biodiversity at UT 

Strengthening biodiversity on our campus is one of our sustainability goals at the University of Twente. By improving monitoring, we gain knowledge about biodiversity on campus in general, which helps us decide on the best ways to support it. In 2024, we started the yearly Bioblitz, in which anyone can help monitor species via the app ObsIdentify. Several activities were organised to raise awareness of biodiversity (such as bird observation). A biodiversity council was established, where CFM (Campus & Facility Management) consult with biodiversity enthusiasts on how maintenance can contribute to an improved habitat for species. Furthermore, thanks to a Climate Centre grant, we are working on making data on green maintenance and biodiversity accessible for research and education. 

Would you like to find out more about sustainability at UT? Please go to utwente.nl/sustainability