The rain that started late in the afternoon brought a few salamaders and people to Beekman Road yesterday. Over the three hours we walked along the road we saw six large spotted salamander females crossing the road and heading into the woods toward the vernal pools. Near the pool the spring peepers and chorus frogs were so loud it was hard to have a conversation.
Many people joined us with falshlights and umbrellas to search for amphibians. Councilman Jim Wendell, his wife Barbara and their two sons told us they were excited to finally see the famous East Brunswick salamanders! People came East and South Brunswick, and even from Plainsboro and Marlboro. Lisa and Rob saw the Facebook update from the Road and decided to come see for themselves. After walking for a while we found another female for them to see.
We have not seen any egg masses in the pools yet, and we simply can't tell if the migration is over. We do not speak Salamander and cannot ask them...The road will be closed for one or two more nights. As always - inforamtion will be posted here and an email will be sent to all Friends members (membership is always Free).
Find out what's happening in East Brunswickwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
To learn more about New Jersey amphibians and to hear their calls - check out the NJDEP webpage.
Safety Comes First (for us and the amphibians): NEVER venture onto the road if it is not closed! Always park along and cross Church Lane very carefully. It is dark and cars drive fast and don't expect people out there at night. EVERYONE should have their OWN flashlight. Walk carefully and watch for amphibians. A car or foot on one and the results are largely the same.
