Wood Frog (Lithobates sylvaticus)

Amphibians often have complex life cycles that include both terrestrial (land-based) and aquatic (water-based) phases. The wood frog spends most of its year in areas that are dominated by mature, deciduous forests and have few open fields or pastures. For breeding purposes, it returns to a body of water, preferably a fish-free environment such as a vernal pool. The wood frog is a relatively common species in Vermont, but prior to this spring (2009), its presence in South Burlington had not been officially noted since before 1980.

Where wood frogs can breed, other amphibians may be found, too. Wood frog eggs have been seen in a vernal pool next to the spermatophores (sperm packets) of mole salamanders (Ambystoma sp.). Members of these species, such as the familiar spotted salamander, spend most of their adult lives underground but journey to water in the spring in order to breed. This journey can be dangerous if a road has been built between a breeding pool and a forest. During warm, rainy nights in April, volunteers throughout Vermont will help wood frogs, spotted salamanders and other species safely cross the road so that they can create the next generation.