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Salamanders
are Shy Creatures
Darke County Parks...
It was a very sunny afternoon when the Darke County Parks held their
“Searching for Sallies” program. The van was packed full and the
group
headed out to Drew Woods State Nature preserve to see what they could
find. Although no salamanders were found, we did find evidence of
their being in the area in the form of a mass of Eastern Tiger
Salamander eggs. These were found in a vernal pool within the
woods.
“Salamanders are shy creatures and finding them can sometimes be a
chore” Naturalist Robb Clifford told the group, “but the egg masses
prove they are here, we just missed them!”
In addition to signs of “Sallies”, the group witnessed other signs of
spring. Upon entering the woods, an American Woodcock was
spotted.
Along the vernal pools, spring peepers and cricket frogs were heard
calling. The group stopped to examine many types of fungi found
throughout the area. Perhaps the most exciting sign of spring’s
arrival were the Spring Beauties popping up through the soil, though
not yet blooming. The group had a great time exploring this special
old-growth forest on a beautiful spring afternoon!
Drew Woods State Nature Preserve is thought to be one of the few
Old-growth forests still left in this region. Owned by the state,
it
is managed by Darke County Park District. Entry into this woodlot
is
by permit only as there are many delicate species found here.
Check out the Nature Notes or visit the website:
www.darkecountyparks.org to see what other programs are offered this
spring. We hope to see you out enjoying your Darke County Parks.
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