It is a rite of spring often upstaged by the season’s first wildflowers or migrating birds. Yet it is no less dramatic than either. Scattered in woodlands across the Northeast, small wetlands erupt with life, notably the carnal adventures of frogs and salamanders, but also fairy shrimp and fingernail clams. These wetlands are vernal pools. Ecologists have come to realize these tiny wetlands are “keystone ecosystems” which have a much greater influence on the surrounding forest than would be expected based on their size alone. Join us virtually on May 4th, from 12:00-1:00 for a presentation by Steve Faccio, Conservation Biologist at Vermont Center for Ecostudies, which will focus on the ecology of vernal pools with an emphasis on the wildlife that depend upon them to complete their life histories, especially salamanders and wood frogs. We will explore the characteristics of vernal pools, the life histories and ecology of the unique assemblage of wildlife (both amphibians and invertebrates) that utilize vernal pools, and the roles these small, inconspicuous wetlands play in our forest ecosystems. We will also discuss conservation issues around vernal pools, including best management practices.

Co-hosted by Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park and Billings Farm & Museum Live on Zoom