On Saturday, November 29, the official opening took place in the municipality of Heeze-Leende on Somerenseweg of a special project: ‘Tunnels for amphibians’. For the past weeks, the road between Heeze and Someren was closed to cars. Fourteen tunnels for frogs, toads, and salamanders were built. Thanks to a successful crowdfunding campaign by IVN Nature Education in Heeze-Leende and financial contributions from both municipalities and the Province of North Brabant, the tunnels are now open for use.
A safe crossing
The municipalities of Heeze-Leende and Someren worked together with the Coordination Point for Landscape Management of Brabants Landschap and involved volunteers to make the tunnels possible. Of the 14 tunnels for frogs, toads, and salamanders, 10 are located in Heeze and 4 in Someren. These tunnels provide a safe crossing for amphibians. At the same time, they also help reconnect nature areas in Brabant that are separated by roads and increase biodiversity (The variety of life in a particular area).
Hotspot for frogs and toads
These tunnels are necessary because many frogs, toads, and salamanders cross the dangerous road annually. They are on their way from their wintering area to the breeding area on the Strabrechtse Heide where they can reproduce in the water. Somerenseweg is known as a ‘hotspot’ for amphibians in the Netherlands. The tunnels are especially good news for the rare moor frog and the natterjack toad.
Connecting nature areas
Fragmentation is an important theme in Brabant. By constructing various types of wildlife crossings such as tunnels and ecoducts, nature areas are reconnected. This allows animals to move safely, expand their habitat, and reproduce better. With the new amphibian tunnels, the province, together with municipalities, nature organizations, and all volunteers, ensures a stronger and safer ecosystem.
