Jill and Simon Turner keep a written record of toad numbers locally as volunteers move them to safety from our roads every mating season. This year, they were so concerned about their decline that they contacted Frank. The stats showed a large and consistent drop in the numbers at the Smithy Pond, whilst they stayed relatively stable at Stubbing.
The difference is that a blue dye is put into the water at the North East District Council maintained Smithy Pond whilst Stubbing is left in a natural state.
The blue dye kills plants to the benefit of anglers but this has a knock on effect by destroying food chains and habitats. The new developments near the Smithy Pond have most likely impacted toad numbers too. As a result, Frank has worked hard to place an emphasis on environmental protection in the new agreement between Wingerworth Parish Council and the Angling Association. He has written to the District Council to urge them to follow suit. This is worrying for toads but also the balance of all nature locally.
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