Preparing for the Migration
It is a tranquil morning in late June as Jennifer Barden, our Program Coordinator for amphibian projects, and Spencer Peters, our new Conservation Technician, are kayaking in a calm, beautiful wetland east of Ryder Lake, Chilliwack. This wetland is an important breeding location for the at-risk Western Toad. Hundreds of thousands of tiny toads, or “toadlets”, start their lives as tadpoles here.
Jennifer and Spencer survey the area periodically to check on how the tadpoles are developing. On this day, they observe the tadpoles starting to lose their tails and form tiny limbs. About two weeks later, the toadlets begin gathering in the thousands on the shore of the wetland, getting ready to migrate. This is an exciting time for Spencer, who is getting ready for his first toadlet migration at the FVC.
Overcoming Obstacles
Each year, as summer sets in, the tiny toadlets face an incredible challenge. After hatching in the wetlands, they must embark on a perilous journey to the nearby forests where they will continue to grow into adults. Unfortunately, the wetland in Ryder Lake is completely surrounded by roads. This puts the toadlets in great danger of getting run over along with way.
Since 2008, the Fraser Valley Conservancy has been hard at work, determined to protect these vulnerable amphibians and their delicate habitat. One of the most impactful solutions came in 2015 with the installation of the “toad tunnel,” a specially designed underground culvert that runs beneath Elk View Road. This tunnel, combined with temporary fencing carefully put up by our team, creates a guided pathway for the toadlets, helping them avoid the roads altogether. Road detour signs are also used to encourage drivers to avoid the migration area.
Check out this quick video of Toadlets on the Move!
A First-Time Experience
This year we saw thousands of toadlets safely crossing under the road using the toad tunnel. Eager volunteers supported our efforts to monitor the roads surrounding the wetland. Together, we found very few toadlets on the road. Spencer was thrilled to witness the phenomenon for the first time.
It was unlike anything I had seen before, with the ground being essentially covered in toads near the entrance to the tunnel. The range of color on the toadlets was interesting, although the majority were shades of brown, there were greens, reds and oranges mixed in to the crowds. It felt heartening to know that our efforts were making such a big difference in helping protect this species.
– Spencer, FVC Conservation Technician
Community Support
The Ryder Lake Nature Team, a small group of dedicated volunteers from the community, join Jennifer and Spencer to ensure the Western Toad migration runs smoothly. From searching for toadlets on the road, to encouraging their neighbours to take the detour route, to assisting with fence repair, these folks always show up to help. As community members continue to join us in caring for the tiny amphibians who share their backyards, we work towards stewarding habitat together.
I think that the most important thing the Nature Team accomplishes is spreading awareness and bringing people together in action with these programs.
– Ian, Ryder Lake Nature Team member
What You Can Do to Help
The toadlets’ journey is a reminder of the fragile beauty of nature and the critical role we play in safeguarding it. As the toadlet migration drew to an end, it became clearer than ever that our work at the FVC would not be possible without the support of everyday people who share our passion for making a positive impact on the environment.
While our efforts have led to significant success, there’s still so much more to be done, and we need your help. You can support our work by volunteering for our hands-on habitat work or becoming a donor.
Thank You to Our Supporters
Thanks to Environment and Climate Change Canada, the Ryder Lake Nature Team, neighbourhood residents, and our generous donors. We couldn’t have done it without you!
