Freiburg's amphibians begin perilous migration as roads turn deadly
Freiburg's annual amphibian migration has started as warmer nights bring frogs, toads and newts onto roads and trails. The creatures are moving toward breeding grounds, but their journey poses risks from traffic and human activity.
To protect them, local authorities have installed new warning signs and barriers along key routes.
Amphibians in Baden-Württemberg are now crossing roads, bike paths and footpaths in large numbers. They are most active at dusk, around 6 p.m., and in the early morning until about 7 a.m. Warmer, wetter nights see even greater movement, increasing the danger of collisions.
Male amphibians often stay on pavement for longer, making them particularly vulnerable to vehicles. Cars travelling faster than 30 km/h can create pressure waves that harm or kill these small animals.
In response, protective measures have been set up across the region. Fences guide amphibians toward safe crossing points, while volunteers help them move without harm. New warning signs now stand in Kappler Großes Tal, Eichhalde, Wintererstraße and Schlierbergweg. Some areas, like Bad Herrenalb, even close roads between February 15 and April 15 to allow safe passage.
Baden-Württemberg is home to 19 native amphibian species, with 11 currently classified as endangered. Road tunnels and temporary barriers are among the methods used to reduce casualties during migration.
The combined efforts of warning signs, volunteer support and road closures aim to reduce amphibian deaths during this critical period. With populations already in decline, these measures help ensure safer migration for the region's frogs, toads and newts.
