Amorous amphibians have an extra week of car-free mating this year

The road at Llandrindod Wells lake is to close nightly for the next three weeks to aid the breeding season.

The population of frogs, toads and newts is one of the most significant in Wales but since 1970 it has fallen by nearly two thirds.

Up to 2,000 creatures, including great crested newts, cross the road on their way to breed in the lake.

This year's temporary overnight closure - from 2000 GMT to 0600 GMT - is a week longer than previously, lasting until Saturday 5 April.

Powys Council said hundreds of toads cross the road every spring on their way from nearby woods to the lake to spawn with many falling victim to passing vehicles.

Gareth Morgan, board member with portfolio responsibility for countryside services, said the local authority had a statutory duty to help conserve biodiversity.

He said: "This is a perfect example of how we can make a real difference to our local wildlife with a relatively small amount of effort."

'Faithful'

Conservationists are set to help the lakeside love-in by using buckets to carry as many of the amphibians as they can across the road.

Biodiversity Officer Emma Durward said: "Toads are faithful to the same breeding site, returning year after year.

"Unfortunately, this means that lethal obstacles situated along their annual migration routes, such as busy roads, could pose a significant threat to the long-term survival of the population.

"We appreciate that some drivers have to change their routine for a few days and we're very grateful for their co-operation."