I want to be there for the big salamander migration--Where's the closest vernal pool?

Post date: Mar 20, 2014 1:41:42 AM

Try this:

go to http://maps.massgis.state.ma.us/map_ol/oliver.php

On the right hand side is Available data layers; click on Conservation/Recreation, then Natural Heritage Data; under that add NHESP Certified Vernal Pools. Should have blue x's show up. Find an area near you with these blue x's (doesn't look like there's anything in Boston....too developed....)

Try to find where these x's are near a road, if road is between vernal pool and non breeding/winter-summer homes, then cridders need to (try to) cross the street to get to pools.

Ideally, temp above 40 degrees, rain at least in afternoon into evening, activity heavier as the night wears on 9pm 10pm, etc. If you're seeing robins running around on lawns looking for worms, that's a hint that ground has thawed, worms/ frogs/ salamanders up and wanto to be running.....

Keep slowly zooming in until the towns/cities show up, see if there's somewhere that: you're familiar with/you can get to at night (remember dark and raining/fog, etc.

Also, contact local wildlife/Audubon places nearby; some have certified pools on their property and have migration night walks, etc.

Good Luck

ps Also listen to weather reports for upcoming favorable migrating conditions such as the first March night that is warm (40-50 degree F) and rainy....