In the spring forest when vernal pools melt and fill with rain, life returns to these ephemeral wetlands. As soon as water appears, fairy shrimp hatch and are soon joined by hundreds
of other organisms. These are the breeding grounds of wood frogs, spotted and blue-spotted salamanders and numerous other creatures. The salamanders migrate to the pools on the first warm (10 C) rainy night and generally stay in the pond a few weeks to mate. We hope to put down cover boards to find some species and will be checking a pool for the eggs of wood frogs, spotted and blue-spotted salamanders and for some of the many organisms that live and breed in these unique woodland ponds. We will also be listening for calling frogs. Dress according to the weather and consider wearing rubber boots. We will return to the location on April 22 to check on progress and enjoy some early spring wildflowers. Sue Paradisis and Jeff Cooper will be leading. To register and for more information on location, contact Sue after March 4 at [email protected] or call 705-559-2061.

Accessibility: Moderate with walking around woodland ponds

15 participants