Charity, Eco & Environment, Nature & Wildlife | Posted on January 13th, 2026 | return to news

Hop to the launch of unique toad photo gallery near Ringwood

A photo gallery in Moors Valley ‘Amphibians Are Friends — A Tale of Toad Patrol’ officially launches at 11am on Valentine’s Day, 14 February.

Rangers at Moors Valley Country Park and Forest have teamed up with Ringwood and Poulner Toad Patrol to stage a unique, free, large-scale outdoor photo gallery titled ‘Amphibians Are Friends — A Tale of Toad Patrol’.

The gallery opened to the public on 12 January and runs until 12 July at a purpose-designed setting close to the popular Play Trail at Moors Valley. An official launch event, which will be open to all, will take place at 11am on Valentine’s Day, 14 February.

The gallery is the brainchild of Louis Pulford, a keen local wildlife photographer, regular volunteer with the patrol, and this website’s designer.

“There’s a common misconception that toads are ugly, but in fact they’re really beautiful,” said Louis.

“I like to take a few seconds to get close-up pictures of them when I’m out on patrol, and it’s a privilege to be able to share them with other people who love and want to protect wildlife.”

The outdoor display at Moors Valley features 12 super-size posters showcasing bold, dramatic photos of common toads and other amphibians, and the vital part they play in our ecosystem.

Volunteers at Ringwood and Poulner Toad Patrol help to save the lives of migrating toads as they cross a busy rural road just north of Ringwood during their breeding season.

Nicola Yorke, who runs the patrol, said: “We’re so happy to have this opportunity to tell people a bit more about the importance of toads.

“Very sadly, amphibians are in decline across the UK due to habitat loss and changing weather patterns, and our local toad population is no exception. Luckily, we have a wonderful team of dedicated, passionate volunteers who turn out in all weathers to help them. Every life we’re able to save is precious.”

Natalie Crabb, recreation manager at Moors Valley Country Park and Forest, said: “We’re really excited to hold our first locally run outdoor exhibition at Moors Valley. The work that the Ringwood and Poulner Toad Patrol team do is so worthwhile, and these striking photos are a brilliant way of sharing this with our Moors Valley audience. “We can’t wait for our visitors to come and enjoy the exhibition and learn something new from this unique experience.”

The gallery is free to visit. Moors Valley does not charge admission per person, but vehicle charges apply. For more information, visit moors-valley.co.uk.

To learn more about Toad Patrol, email rptoadpatrol1@gmail.com.