Salamander Migration Update #15 - Beekman Road Will Be Closed Tonight

Beekman Road will be closed tonight. As we have noted over and over in these posts, nature is happily unpredictable and with each passing year we learn more and more about our migration and the triggers for movement.

With the warm humid temperatures last night and light rain very early this morning there was a significant movement of spotted salamanders and frogs. While I was expecting some movement, I was surprised by what I saw this morning. I conducted a somewhat panicked pre-dawn sweep of the road and moved about a dozen spotted salamanders safely to the other side. Unfortunately two didn't make it, but we do the best we can. There was also a wonderful chorus of spring peepers at the vernal pools, a sure sign that spring has sprung! Hopefully tonight the weather will continue to be suitable and there will still be plenty of spotted salamanders and frogs to cross.

A few very important reminders:

Use extreme caution crossing Church Lane.

Dress for wet, raw weather.

Each person should have a flashlight with a good strong light.

Walk carefully and be on the lookout for tiny spring peepers and of course salamanders.

Let others know what you find so they can share in the fun.

Consider joining the Friends to get the latest updates on the migration and all of our other innovative programs. Membership is free and so are our programs. We can also be found on Facebook where members can share their observations and photos.