This map comes from Mass GIS data and from Natural Heritage. Compare the number of certified (red) pools in each town with the potential pools (blue).  Potential pools are identified by infra red aerial photography, and many may prove not to be vernal pools when inspected.  They are all places where water gathers early in the year, but are not connected to running water.  Several animals depend on vernal pools because the eggs and infant forms can only live in water without fish that might eat them.  The adult lives on land, and overwinters there.  Vernal pools are certified by Natural Heritage because they support rare animals which are a crucial component of biodiversity.

On a warmer wet night in March or April the frogs and salamanders return to the vernal pools, even crawling and hopping over the snow.   This is about the only time when it is easy to see a mole salamander, a cute animal about 8" long with a goofy smile.  Some salamanders are rare and protected species.   Information on this, the "Big Night" can be provided if you register with us by email or by phone or for sites in other towns, with Ellen Minichiello at Mass Audubon by phone 508-753-6087 Ext 13, or by email at eminichiello@massaudubon.org . It is not easy to predict when the night will come, but  volunteers turn out to protect the animals as they cross roads to get to the pool of their choice. Holden's vernal pool for the big night session is on Whitney St, opposite #121.  Later in April we will be visiting vernal pools, and possibly collecting data to certify some.  We will also be taking part in a state wide study of the prevalence of different species of fairy shrimp, one of the animals found in vernal pools.  Email us for information.

This spotted salamander crossed the road on a cold and rainy night in March 2003, to get to his natal vernal pool in Jefferson. A small "Big Night" happened late on Wednesday 3/26/03, but instead of the usual multitudes we only saw about 30 wood frogs, one peeper, three spotted salamanders, and two red backs who just wanted to cross the road (they do not breed in the pool).  There were more crossing Saturday in heavy rain, mostly salamnders and spring peepers.  There may be a few stragglers on later rainy nights, but early April or late March is the  time to start looking for eggs.  Listen for wood frogs quacking!

Check out our Vernal Pool SWAT Team info here!