Amphibian Amble--Saturday, March 28

A hardy group enjoyed a leisurely hike through the beautiful Hadlock Preserve in Ashtabula County searching for amphibians. They were not disappointed. Wood Frogs were were noisily grunting in one vernal pool. Numerous Spring Peepers were chirping away and one chilly Green Frog put in an appearance. Egg masses of Wood Frogs and Spotted Salamanders were found and leader Judy Semroc brought both out of the vernal pool for hikers to examine. Spotted Newts were located in the beaver pond above the Ashtabula River. Harbinger of Spring brightened the paths along the flood plain. Great Horned Owl pellets provided numerous clues to the mammal life of the forest floor. A Fantail Darter provided an interesting discussion led by participant John Senderak.

As seen in this crayfish shot, the Ashtabula River
certainly deservesits State Scenic River status!

Comparison shot of
spotted salamander eggs (left) and wood frog eggs (right)