Why did the spotted salamander cross the road? To get to the other side—where their favored breeding pool lies! 

The annual migration of amphibians throughout the Upper Delaware River region will soon be here as the final days of February fade and we welcome warmer weather in March and early April. 

During this timeframe, there will come periods providing the perfect combination of factors to spark the “Big Night” migration of various species of salamanders and frogs as they faithfully attempt to return to their breeding pools. Temperatures above 40 degrees Fahrenheit, darkness and a warm steady rain will stir the herps from their winter slumber.

The trek is treacherous, as they face the hazards of being crushed by our vehicles. Many will not survive. Increasing awareness of the high toll being paid in amphibian lives is leading to attempts to mitigate the harm done to the hapless herps here.

One such effort in Pike and Monroe counties in Pennsylvania is the temporary closure of River Road in the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area between the Hialeah Picnic Area and park headquarters. The closures typically occur between 4 p.m. and 6:30 a.m. from March through mid-April, when temperatures are mild and rain is in the forecast. Follow the park’s Facebook page for potential closures at www.facebook.com/search/top?q=delaware%20water%20gap%20national%20recreation%20area.

For roads that don’t get closed, like the one I live on, consider lending a hand to the amphibian friends who share your local habitat. During seasonal migrations, the road between my home and the boggy lake on the other side is littered with the bodies of amphibians who met their fate on the pavement. We attempt to lower the losses by donning reflective gear and grabbing bright flashlights and headlamps before heading into the rainfall to relocate the determined animals to the other side of the road in the direction they were heading. 

To be honest, it can be a pretty dismal scene to see how many don’t survive, so steel yourself and support those still hoping to hit the pool party before the night is over. A very helpful volunteer handbook from the Amphibian Migrations and Road Crossings Project in New York is available here.

 Be sure to review the guidelines for staying safe before heading out.

Amp up your amphibian activism by opting not to drive on those nights when migration is likely to occur. If you must be on the road, drive slowly and attempt to avoid any animals encountered. Amphibians are important elements in healthy ecosystems, and they love their lives too!