Join Conservancy staff to explore some of our vernal pools and learn about our local amphibians for this vernal pool hike! Vernal pools are essential breeding habitat for many of our native amphibians and breeding season is here. Learn about what a vernal pool is, why the habitat is important, and about some of our local amphibians that use it. While looking in our pools, participants will help us collect data that will help the Conservancy start tracking vernal pools and amphibian breeding activity here in Willowsford.
While hiking, we’ll also listen for the American Woodcock. This forest dwelling shorebird migrates through Virginia for breeding this time of year and are very active after dark. They are charismatic bird with a distinctive “peent” call that makes it easy to listen for and track down while hiking after dark.
What to bring: If you have a headlamp, bring it! We will have some extras to share but may not have enough for everyone. Otherwise, wear sturdy close-toed shoes (boots are best, especially since we will be around the waters edge) and dress for the weather. This hike will be rain or shine (light rain would actually be ideal for this hike).
A couple notes:
Often when it comes to amphibian breeding, they are post active on nights that are warm and wet. Our ideal night for observing amphibians will be one where the air temperature is above 40 degrees and there was been recent rain. If the conditions look like they will be exceptionally cold and dry on February 20th, we will switch to February 27th as our back up date. Registrants will be emailed updates if the date changes so be sure to check your email as the date approaches!
Our hike will be about 1.5 miles and I estimate will take us about 1.5 hours to complete. However, we expect to see the most amount of amphibian activity nearest to Spring Peeper Pond at the beginning of the program so if you’d prefer to leave early or skip the hike, please feel free to.
Children under the age of 16 are very welcome but must be accompanied by an adult
During mating season, some frogs can be LOUD. If you are very sensitive to loud noises, consider bringing hearing protection like ear plugs just in case they choose to be loud on this day.
You may also like the following events from Willowsford Conservancy & Farm:
Also check out other
Trips & Adventurous Activities in Arcola.
