A Leap Forward for Conservation: The Western Leopard Toad Underpass Project

A collaboration between the City of Cape Town and Nature Connect has led to a groundbreaking development in amphibian conservation: the Western Leopard Toad Underpass Project.

Protecting the Endangered Western Leopard Toad

The initiative aims to protect the endangered Western Leopard Toad by installing six underpass tunnels along Peninsula Road that cuts through the False Bay Nature Reserve. These safe passages allow the toads to travel beneath the road, avoiding the dangers posed by vehicular traffic, especially during their breeding season.

Progress of the Project

Deputy Mayor Alderman Eddie Andrews recently visited the False Bay Nature Reserve to observe the project’s progress. He met with the passionate Nature Connect team responsible for driving this vital conservation initiative. The City of Cape Town’s Biodiversity Management Branch supported the project, providing expert guidance and necessary approvals for the construction of these tunnels.

The Nature Connect team, in collaboration with the City’s Biodiversity Management branch, successfully completed the sixth tunnel along Peninsula Road within the Zeekoevlei Section of the False Bay Nature Reserve. This accomplishment coincides with the Western Leopard Toad’s breeding season, enabling the toads to safely cross the perilous Peninsula Road during the rainy winter months when their breeding drive is at its peak.

Utilization and Decline in Toad Fatalities

Volunteer observations show that the toads are already utilizing these tunnels, and statistics reveal a significant decline in road-related toad fatalities.

The Importance of Conservation and Biodiversity

Alderman Eddie Andrews stresses the importance of the Western Leopard Toad as a flagship species for conservation. He highlights the urgency of maintaining robust biodiversity and well-functioning wetlands within Cape Town in order to safeguard urban wildlife.

The Threat of Road Traffic

The Western Leopard Toad, listed as an endangered species, is native to the Western Cape region of South Africa. From now until September, the breeding and migration seasons for the Western Leopard Toad, road traffic poses the most significant threat to their survival. Alderman Eddie Andrews urges residents in these areas to exercise caution, remain vigilant, and avoid driving over toads as they cross roads to reach their breeding sites.

Contributions to the Project

The realization of this crucial project was made possible through the contributions of various organizations, such as the Leisure Charitable Trust, Foundation Ensemble, Forvia Foundation, and the Mohamed bin Zayed Species Conservation Fund. Their support has been instrumental in bringing this ambitious conservation initiative to fruition, demonstrating a commitment to protecting urban wildlife and the biodiversity of Cape Town.

Collaboration for a Greater Cause

The Western Leopard Toad Underpass Project exemplifies the power of collaboration between city officials, conservation organizations, and dedicated volunteers. By creating safe passages for these endangered creatures, the project aims to reduce the risks they face during their breeding and migration seasons. As a result, the Western Leopard Toad population stands a greater chance of recovery, bolstering the biodiversity and ecological health of Cape Town’s urban environment.