Endine Gaiano, Italy – As the first hints of spring begin to thaw the landscape around Lago d’Endine, a remarkable annual rescue operation is gearing up. Thousands of amphibians, primarily common toads – known scientifically as Bufo bufo – are preparing to migrate from the surrounding forests to the lake to breed. This journey, however, is fraught with danger, and a dedicated team of volunteers and ecological experts are preparing to intervene, ensuring these creatures reach their destination safely. The Bufo Bufo Rescue Campaign 2025 is now underway, aiming to protect these vulnerable animals from traffic along the busy Provincial 76 road.
The annual migration sees amphibians venturing towards the lake to reproduce, a process vital for the continuation of their species. In 2025, approximately 22,000 amphibians were observed traveling down to the lake, whereas around 17,000 were counted making the return journey, according to data from the Comunità Montana dei Laghi Bergamaschi (Cmlb). While the majority are Bufo bufo, other species including green frogs, Dalmatian frogs, Lataste frogs, salamanders, and crested and smooth newts also participate in this mass movement.
Protecting the Migration Route
The most perilous part of the amphibians’ journey lies in crossing the Provincial 76, a road that cuts through the last foothills between Monasterolo and Endine Gaiano. Without intervention, many would be crushed by passing vehicles. To mitigate this risk, Cmlb workers have already installed temporary barriers along the roadside. These barriers are strategically placed to funnel the amphibians towards safer crossing points, preventing them from venturing directly onto the asphalt.
The barriers aren’t a standalone solution; they require the dedicated efforts of volunteers. Around thirty volunteers, representing local and Lombardy-based organizations including the Cmlb, the Province of Bergamo, the Parco del Serio, the Comunità Montana della Valle Seriana, the Parco dell’Adamello, and the Parco Nord di Milano, will be crucial to the operation’s success. Their task is to carefully collect the amphibians trapped by the barriers and transport them to safety on the other side of the road.
A Vital Census Alongside the Rescue
The rescue operation is not solely focused on saving individual animals. It’s also an opportunity to gather valuable data about the local amphibian population. “These data are vital to verify the health and growth of the local population,” explained officials from the Cmlb. Volunteers will be provided with intuitive data sheets to aid in identifying the different species, recording key morphological indicators. This ongoing census provides crucial insights into the long-term health and stability of these amphibian populations.
Participation in the rescue campaign requires a degree of responsibility, and awareness. Volunteers, who must be at least eight years old, are expected to follow the instructions of experienced ecological volunteers and Cmlb experts. The work can be physically demanding, and participants should be prepared for potential hazards, such as slippery conditions or traffic. However, the Cmlb emphasizes that the experience offers a unique opportunity for hands-on conservation and environmental education.
How to Get Involved
Individuals interested in contributing to the amphibian rescue can express their interest by emailing [email protected]. The email should include availability dates, personal details, and a signed waiver. No more than 12 volunteers will be permitted to work each evening, divided into three sectors, and always accompanied by experienced ecological volunteers or Cmlb experts.
Rescue operations will commence when weather conditions are favorable – specifically, with rainfall or high humidity and temperatures above 5°C (41°F). The work will take place in the evenings, between 6:30 p.m. (standard time) or 7:30 p.m. (daylight saving time) and 10:00-11:00 p.m., starting from the parking lot near the Church of San Michele Arcangelo in San Felice, Endine Gaiano.
This annual effort highlights the delicate balance between human activity and the natural world. By working together, volunteers and experts are striving to ensure the survival of these significant creatures and protect the biodiversity of the Lago d’Endine ecosystem. As the migration season progresses, updates on the campaign’s progress and any changes to the schedule will be available through the Cmlb.
The next scheduled update from the Comunità Montana dei Laghi Bergamaschi regarding the Bufo Bufo rescue campaign is expected in mid-April, following an initial assessment of the migration’s peak.
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