04/14/2026
I love the first warm rains in April because it means the amphibians are crossing!
Spotted salamanders and wood frogs — pulling themselves out of hibernation, crossing roads and lawns and fields in the dark, making their way to the same vernal pools they've been finding for years.
We've caught a mass migration a few times on Plunkton Road on our way to the Cabin — hundreds of frogs and salamanders crossing the road all at once. Yup, every time we stop the car, carefully pull over, put on gloves (amphibian skin is very sensitive), and help those little guys across.
It’s equal parts kinship, surreal, and mostly just stinking hilarious. The first time I experienced it, I laughed so hard I was crying.
If you're out on a warm rainy April night - slow down. Try not to squash them.