Police blocked off a road in Somerset West after thousands of frogs started crossing the road to get to a bigger water source on the other side.
Somerset West, South Africa (08 March 2021) – The community of Somerset West were left feeling distressed after it was reported that thousands of frogs were crossing the road near the Somerset Mall and being run flat.
Thankfully, the local police came to the rescue, blocking off the road so that the thousands of frogs could be safely ushered across the road. The incident caused quite a traffic jam, but it meant that the frogs could reach the other side safely.
There has been some speculation as to whether the frogs were the Western Leopard Toad which is considered endangered or the Platanna, also referred to as an African Clawed Frog.
The Western Leopard Toad spends most of its time away from water, but they can be found nearby waterways which they use come breeding season. Their breeding season is in August so it is curious as to why so many would be crossing the road this time of year. Scientists have not yet commented on the crossing.
Cape Nature lists that the toads are firstly threatened due to development and habitats disappearing and secondly to road traffic.
Unlike the Western Leopard Toad, a Platanna will spend most of its life in water. They will take part in a mass migration like this in times of low rainfall or drought. After seeing amateur video and images of the frogs, it is highly likely that they are, in fact, the Platanna.
“These frogs live mainly in lakes, rivers, swamps and reservoirs – but they have been seen to migrate to other bodies of water during periods of drought. On land, the creatures become clumsy and awkward, moving in a series of flopping motions.” – Two Oceans Aquarium.
The reason we wanted to share the news about this crossing is that it raises awareness and for people in the area to drive safely and ensure that any more frogs can cross the road safely.
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