Tonight is predicted to be a "big night." A big night is a warm, rainy night in the spring, which means thousands of salamanders and frogs across the state of New Hampshire will be out and about, heading from forests to vernal pools for their annual breeding fiesta.
Many will be crossing the road, which makes it important for drivers to be careful this time of year. Special care must be taken when driving through rural, low lying areas that are likely spots for amphibians to be crossing the street.
Here in Keene, we actually close a couple of our roads on those few nights in spring to ensure the safety and stability of our local amphibian population, in recognition of the vital role they play in our local ecology as a key link in the food web. This initiative has been spearheaded by the Harris Center for Conservation Education in support of their “Salamander Crossing Brigade” program.
We had another big night around here a couple weeks ago, where, after years of helping peepers and wood frogs cross the street, I found my first yellow spotted salamander - as show in the attached picture.
Finally, here are some notes from Keene Public Works to those considering a visit to the North Lincoln Street Salamander Crossing tonight:
- Amphibian migrations take place after dark, in wet weather only.
- If you are planning to visit the North Lincoln Street site to observe the migration, please dress for the weather and bring a flashlight for every member of your group.
- Families are welcome to come to North Lincoln Street when that road is closed for amphibians, but we ask that only trained Salamander Crossing Brigade volunteers in proper safety attire visit the Jordan Road crossing due to safety and lack of parking in this area.
- When North Lincoln Street is closed to traffic, a Harris Center naturalist will be on site from shortly after sunset until 10:00 PM.