While some amphibians may look similar to reptiles, their moist skin sets them apart. The lives of frogs, toads, and salamanders, like the ones found within the park, are tied to water, so many can be found near streams or hidden under damp leaf litter. Because they are very sensitive to changes in their environment, the salamanders here in the park are part of a research study that looks to better understand how environmental changes effect salamander populations. The park's resource managers place boards out over a test area that the salamanders burrow under; the resource managers can then simply lift the boards and count the salamanders to get an idea of the size and health of the overall population. Often school groups are able to assist with this project. The park hopes that through this research, we can better help and protect salamander populations.
Link to the Park's multimedia page to view a student salamander monitoring video. Amphibians in Winter |
Last updated: March 17, 2017