Introduction to Amphibian Migration Season
The annual frog and salamander migration is well underway in the Hudson Valley. Amphibian Migrations and Road Crossings Project volunteers all around the Hudson Valley are doing their best to safeguard the movement of these amphibians to reduce road mortality this migration season.
Amphibians like wood frogs, spotted salamanders, and Jefferson-blue spotted salamander complex come out from underground shelters in the forest and head to vernal pools for breeding in the late winter and early spring, per the Department of Environmental Conservation.
Understanding the Migration Process
Volunteers at the Amphibian Migrations and Road Crossings Project have been helping with these migrations and counting the amphibians for 17 years now. The first sight of migration this season began on March 5. Migration depends on the weather, with activity really beginning on the first rainy nights of the season when the ground has thawed and temperatures are above 40 degrees at night.
Current Status of the Migration
Volunteers surveyed the roads from the lower Hudson Valley to the Capital District and found 1,600 amphibians. Most of them were wood frogs and spring peepers. 800 amphibians were assisted safely across the road, but more than 40% were found dead.
How to Get Involved
Those interested in volunteering to help these amphibians can watch training videos on YouTube and read the volunteer handbook online. Over the last 17 years, volunteers have documented 20 species, counted more than 58,000 live amphibians, and counted 24,000 migrating amphibians that have been killed by passing vehicles.
Impact of Volunteer Efforts
The efforts of volunteers have significantly contributed to the understanding and conservation of amphibian populations in the Hudson Valley. By assisting these animals in crossing roads safely, volunteers directly reduce the number of deaths caused by vehicular traffic, thereby helping to preserve the balance of local ecosystems.
Conclusion
The amphibian migration season is a critical period for the conservation of these species. With the help of volunteers, the Amphibian Migrations and Road Crossings Project continues to make a positive impact on the survival rates of migrating amphibians. By spreading awareness and encouraging community involvement, we can work together to protect these vital components of our ecosystem.
FAQs
- Q: When does the amphibian migration season typically start?
- A: The migration season begins in late winter and early spring, triggered by the first rainy nights when the ground has thawed and temperatures are above 40 degrees at night.
- Q: How can I help during the amphibian migration season?
- A: You can help by volunteering with the Amphibian Migrations and Road Crossings Project. Start by watching training videos on YouTube and reading the volunteer handbook online.
- Q: What species of amphibians are most commonly found during the migration?
- A: Wood frogs, spotted salamanders, and Jefferson-blue spotted salamander complex are among the species commonly found during the migration.
- Q: Why is it important to help amphibians cross the road?
- A: Helping amphibians cross the road reduces the number of deaths caused by vehicular traffic, which is crucial for the conservation of these species and the balance of local ecosystems.
