Spring has arrived in Revelstoke, bringing sunny days, blooming crocuses, and the annual migration of Western Toads and Western Painted Turtles along Airport Way.
From mid-April to mid-May, Western Toads make their way from forested mountain habitats down to the wetlands and marshes on the banks of the Columbia River to breed. During this peak migration period, large numbers of toads cross Airport Way at night, and many are killed by vehicles.
We’re asking drivers to slow down, stay alert, and avoid nighttime travel along Airport Way where possible to help reduce road mortality for these vulnerable amphibians.
“This stretch of road is a major crossing point for wildlife,” says Reanne Harvey, Wildsight Revelstoke Branch Manager. “Small changes in driver behaviour — slowing down and watching carefully — can make a big difference for these animals.”
Spring also marks the emergence of Western Painted Turtle hatchlings from their mountainside nests. The hatchlings are currently heading down toward the river and across Airport Way. Soon after, adult turtles will return to nesting areas for the 2026 breeding season.
Both Western Toads and Western Painted Turtles are species of concern in B.C., and Revelstoke’s steep valley landscape leaves them with limited habitat and safe movement corridors. As a result, Airport Way has become a critical hotspot for wildlife crossings.
To help address the issue, Wildsight Revelstoke has partnered with the BC Ministry of Transportation and Transit to install wildlife culverts beneath Airport Way. These underpasses will provide safer passage for toads and turtles — but more work is needed to make them effective.
Wildsight Revelstoke is now fundraising to fill the culvert interiors with natural materials and install fencing that will direct animals toward the crossings.
Community members are invited to support the project by donating and becoming a ‘Toad Angel’. Residents can also get involved by biking out to observe the migration or volunteering to help monitor and protect the crossings.