Why Did the Amphibian Cross the Road? Apply Now: Free Native Trees to Protect Streams

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation
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wood frog crossing a road to reach a breeding poolHudson RiverNet
News from the Hudson River Estuary Program


Why Did the Amphibian Cross the Road?

why did the amphibian cross the road video
Watch "Why Did the Amphibian Cross the Road?"

Have you ever witnessed large numbers of salamanders and frogs crossing the road on rainy spring nights? Ever wonder where they came from and where they're going?

The forests of New York are inhabited by a group of salamanders that are seldom seen, as they spend much of their time under leaves, moss, and rotting logs on the forest floor or in burrows created by small animals. Although elusive, these amphibians have important roles in our forest systems. This group includes spotted salamander, Jefferson salamander, and blue-spotted salamander. Another small amphibian you may see while walking in the forest is the wood frog.

a volunteer helps a salamander to cross a roadIn early spring, after the ground has started to thaw, species like spotted salamander and wood frog emerge from underground winter shelters in the forest and walk overland to breed in woodland pools, a small, temporary wetland found in forests. During early spring rains when evening temperatures are above 40F, these amphibians migrate to breeding pools by the hundreds, if not thousands. When conditions align just so, there can be explosive (“big night” migrations). Where these migratory pathways cross roads, Hudson Valley volunteers help amphibians cross safely.

To learn more visit DEC's Amphibian Migration & Road Crossing web page.

Photos: wood frog by John Horton; spotted salamander by Laura Heady; volunteer road crosser by Cara Gentry


Hudson Estuary Trees for Tribs Program

a family plants a tree to protect the streamDo you own or manage land along a stream? You can now apply for free native plants to help reduce erosion and improve habitat along your stream.

Watch Trees for Tribs on DEC YouTube to see how the program works for landowners and land managers.

The Hudson Estuary Trees for Tribs program offers free native trees and shrubs for planting along the tributary streams in the Hudson River Estuary watershed. Our staff can help you with a planting plan and work with your volunteers.

For more information about the program or to download an application for spring planting, please visit the DEC website.