The Rites of Spring (and the Glory of Peepers)

One of the most wonderful mysteries about Life in the Country is the annual mating ritual of the salamanders and frogs.

Crazy as it sounds, it is an experience that is literally full of wonder to watch the little salamanders creep with determination toward the vernal pools where they will lay their eggs; and to hear the mating calls of the frogs, which sound like thousands of baby chicks all peeping at one time.

Get a guided tour of the show on Thursday, April 14, from 8 to 9 p.m. with Sharon  Audubon.  Science teacher Joseph Markow will host a vernal pool exploration at Audubon’s Miles Wildlife Sanctuary, which is at 99 West Cornwall Road in Sharon, Conn. (but not at the Audubon Center on Route 4).

The group will look for Spotted salamanders and Red-spotted Newts, frogs and egg masses and identify some of the vocalizations of the early breeding frogs.

The cost is $10 for each adult, $5 for each child. This is an activity that is suitable for ages 8 and older. Space is limited and prepaid online reservations are required; go to https://sharon.audubon.org/events.

Call 860-364-0520 or email Bethany at bethany.sheffer@audubon.org with questions.

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