The Night of the Toads in Avigliana

The SOS Amphibian Campaign returns again this year to protect the frogs, toads, and salamanders that migrate from the Grignetto-Bertassi woods, where they spend the winter, to breed in the Mareschi Marsh.
This awareness-raising project for amphibian protection garnered widespread media attention last year thanks to host and comedian Luciana Littizzetto, who described the initiative on Radio Deejay, and Lorenza Castagneri's report on TgR Piemonte, recorded during the "Notte dei Tospi" (Night of the Toads). Therefore, in 2026, the municipal administration, with the Ecovolontari group, together with the Management Body of the Cottian Alps Protected Areas, will continue to implement awareness-raising initiatives for the protection of these species, involving adults, students, and families, in the spirit of environmental protection in the Avigliana Lakes Natural Park. Unfortunately, on their way to the wetlands, many animals risk losing their lives crossing the road. Continuing with the successful experiment last year, the stretch of Via Grignetto affected by animal migration will once again be closed during times of low vehicle traffic and peak wildlife movement. It has been confirmed that vehicle traffic causes high amphibian mortality, putting the survival of the species at risk. As has been the case during previous campaigns, the road closure will also allow Park staff to move freely and safely for scientific census and study activities. The closure will be in effect from February 16th to March 15th inclusive, from 8 pm to 7 am, and will be limited to the stretch between the Grignetto and Case Dino hamlets, which will however remain accessible at all times.
Depending on weather conditions, two events for the Night of the Toads are scheduled for Friday, February 27th and Friday, March 6th, 2026, accompanied by park rangers, to discover these special animals and help them reach their breeding sites in the Mareschi Marsh.

Excursion guided by park rangers and in collaboration with the Avigliana Ecovolunteers, along two routes. A short route, mostly on asphalt, with a small portion on wet meadows and mud, is recommended for children under 10 (2.5–3 km, approximately 1.5 hours). A longer route, a mixed loop of asphalt and wet meadows through the marsh, with a lot of mud (3.5–4 km, approximately 2.5 hours).

Meet in Piazzale Nino Costa (Grignetto). Groups of 25 people will depart at 8:30 PM.

One group for the short route

One group for the long circular route: 9:30 PM. A group for the short route will depart.

Appropriate clothing is essential: rubber boots, flashlight, or headlamp. For safety reasons, the evening will not take place in case of wind.

Out of respect for the delicate environment we will be visiting, the activity has a limited number of places. Reservations are required by February 25th for the first evening and by March 4th for the second evening at the Avigliana Tourist Information Office, 0119311873 - info.avigliana@turismotorino.org.

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Municipality of Avigliana - Avigliana

Natural Park of Avigliana's Lakes - Avigliana