With the Western Toad population on a decline, there is a research project going on in the Cowichan Valley to learn more about their hibernation patterns in the winter. The Western Toad is a species of special concern in Canada.
The study involves catching toads, putting on a small transmitter, and tracking their movements through winter. Head researcher and biologist Elke Wind says the public can help by keeping an eye out for adult toads and catching them when possible.
You can keep the toads in a bucket with a lid, keeping them cool with some moss or grass, and emailing [email protected].
A large part of the study takes place in the Sahtlam area – so residents shouldn’t be surprised when seeing crews walking or driving through the neighbourhood. Wind explains why they chose this area to perform the study.
The study area goes north to Cowichan Lake Road, down to Riverbottom Road, west to Stoltze Road and east to Gibbons Road.
For more information on the project and how you can help, head to their public meeting on September 20th at the Sahtlam Fire Hall at 7pm.
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