A group of local “woodland warriors” donned rain jackets and flashlights this week in an effort to save our slippery friends.
Every Spring, a cadre of defenseless little critters come alive from a long winter dormancy. They are instinctively drawn out of the woods and migrate to nearby creekbeds and vernal pools for breeding and spawning.
CAC Chair, Barbara Heinzen, lives on the border with Hannacroix Creek near Route 144 where the annual migration takes place. The event is triggered by warm, rainy nights, and Monday evening (3/16/26) proved one of those ideal crossing opportunities. Heinzen puts out a ‘call to action’ in advance to folks willing to assist the slimy, little species in their journey across the busy road.
Volunteers walked up and down both sides of the road, scooping up hapless toads, frogs, salamanders, and peepers. They are released into Barbara’s wetlands, also known as a Barbets Duet.
A total of 80 living things were collected and protected from roadkill last night. “A stupendous amount,” said Heinzen.
This count helps the NYS DEC in their efforts to gather critical data on habitat conservation. To learn more, visit today’s DEC press release with important links to what you can do to help.
Even if you’re not Irish, this action doesn’t get any greener! Happy St.Patrick’s Day, everyone!
Barbara’s first newt of the night on March 22, 2026.
