Andy Ryder- Avon Herp

Andy Ryder

Avon Reptile & Amphibian Group - Toad Patrols

Introduction 

Today’s topic => signage

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A bit about me

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Introduction to the ARAG patrol sites Photo by Ian Wade

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The importance of signage

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Costs and ongoing support

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Other examples from around the World

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Questions?

A Bit About Me 

Joined ARAG 2009

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First patrol started in 2010

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Lived in France between 2013 & 2016

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Approaching 500 species Worldwide

ARAG Patrol Sites (1/3) => Fishponds 

Revival of an old patrol unmanned since the 90’s

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Patrol area includes local roads and a cycle path

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Average ~1,000 amphibians per year during migration

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The locals….!

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Signage solution & support (BCCC & BZ)

Fishponds Sign Design

ARAG Patrol Sites (2/3) => Bitton 

Very stable group with a lot of social interaction

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Huge numbers of amphibians each year

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Large patrol area including multiple waterbodies & amphibian movement in all directions

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A bolt hole

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Signage solution & insurance

ARAG Patrol Sites (3/3) => Chew 

Remote location on a very fast road – B3114

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Amphibian numbers very variable year-to-year

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Vast lake and large patrol areas to cover

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Volunteer recruitment is challenging; retention even more so

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Bristol Water funding support

Chew Sign Design

The Importance of Signage 

Raise awareness of the toads!

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Raise awareness of the volunteers & safety

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Helping new volunteers find the location

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Marketing for potential new volunteers

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Sense of community

Costs and Ongoing Support 

If possible ‘piggyback’ existing posts

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Without posts, costs are ~£650

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Once erected, signs are covered by local council’s insurance policy

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Local community & stakeholder sponsorship

Examples From Around The World

ARAG Results Avon Toad Patrol Results 2010 => 2018

In Year Total

Cumulative Total

8,000

35,000 31,981

7,000

6,707

30,000

344

6,000

5,675

559

25,000

178

4,942

5,000

204 958

4,000

4,560 176

835

20,000

4,255 208

743

792

3,303

15,000

261

3,000

5,804

535

10,000

4,662

2,000

3,780

1,386 1,016

1,000 0

97 5

137

914

2010

2011

5 1 131

168 82

3,641

3,255

2,507

5,000

1,136

2012

Toads

2013

Frogs

2014

Newts

2015

2016

Total

2017

Cumul ative Tota l

2018

0

Questions?