We had an amazing, first-ever CLC & Green Mountain Conservation Group (GMCG) Big Night Salamander Brigade with a total of 156 amphibians crossing Washington Hill Road while we were out, including 72 spotted salamanders, 15 red-backed salamanders, two wood frogs, and 67 spring peepers. The conditions were perfect with light rain, temperatures just above 40 degrees, and unfrozen ground.
Migrating amphibians face the challenge of crossing a road with cars and other human disturbances. However, we discovered that many other creatures of the night were also tuned into the migration. Mammal/predator highlights include a barred owl that landed in the middle of the road to pick up a salamander dinner, and shrews and mice patrolling the sides of the road. The migration is not only a journey to get to amphibian breeding grounds, but also a race for survival to avoid predators of the night.
We had 12 hardy participants who braved wind, rain, and damp conditions to help migrating amphibians cross the road by night. It was the first Big Night for everyone who participated, and everyone assisted a spotted salamander—a Big Night right of passage!
Partnering with GMCG Education Coordinator Tara Schroeder and Grace Piselli, one of GMCG’s AmeriCorps members was fantastic. They did a wonderful job co-leading the program and compiling and processing data, and are essential partners in the Basin area. Also, as a major complementary bonus, Tara shared her killer hot chocolate with the group which topped off the evening's program.
Big Night events highlight awareness of the importance of wildlife corridors and crossings and the necessity to preserve and protect land that connects these important habitats. Plus they are really fun!