Some Vernal Pool Species

To the left is a photo of a wood frog (Rana sylvatica). Wood frogs are found throughout New England and northern North America. They are common, small frogs (~2 inches) that don't get very large but their singing can be heard during the spring time. Here's what they sound like http://allaboutfrogs.org/files/sounds/wood.wav
Right now the frogs are migrating from the forested uplands into the vernal pools.


Vernal Pools also are home to salamanders. To the right is a spotted salamander (Ambystoma maculatum). The salamanders are also migrating from the upland to the vernal pools. These salamanders are quite common and large (some grow up to 7 inches). If you ever come across one, make sure you wet your hands with water or wear latex gloves. All amphibians have pores on their skin and are very sensitive. Salamanders also diffuse a slim as a deterant for predators (and humans). It's a sticky slim or goo. Not nice to get on you! Usually there's a Big Night once a year, usually in April. It's when many salamanders move from the upland to the vernal pools/wetlands, and usually "they choose" a rainy, warm night.
The reasons to 'why' they are migrating to the pools is for mating. And that is why Vernal Pools are so important to the ecosystem, and why vernal pools are protected.
(These photos were taken by Jon).