CCLT participates in a state-wide scientific study of Big Night.
In late March or early April, we hear the vocalizations of spring peepers resonating from thawing vernal pools, where their lives began and where they return to start a new generation. CCLT’s Frog Pond and Salamander Swamp, along Range Road in Cumberland, is a popular spot to observe many species of frogs and salamanders as they make their annual migration from woods to water, where they mate and lay their eggs.
We are all scientists!
CCLT collects important data for the statewide Maine Big Night project and are thrilled to have your help. We count each species we see, how many dead or alive, and also the number of vehicles that come through. The collected data tracking frog and salamander migration directly influences their conservation outlook. Lead volunteers are on site for you to report your findings. Many families or pods work together for a fun group activity and to not over-report sightings.
In order to better protect these vulnerable critters, ensure participants’ safety, and collect the most accurate data possible, we are limiting the number of registrants. So, if you’re interested, be sure to sign up now!
Dates of recent Big Nights:
2020: April 2
2021: March 28
2022: March 31
2023: April 17
2024: April 10
Click here for a fun story that aired on WCSH 6 in 2022: Police, scientists in Cumberland aid amphibian study | newscentermaine.com
Maine Big Night 2024
Volunteer Training Manual
Conserving Maine’s Significant Wildlife Habitat
Maine Audubon’s resource on the significance of vernal pools
Things are hoppin' in early springtime at and near our local vernal pools. Let's read a story! Big Night for Salamanders is written by Sarah Marwil Lamstein and illustrated by Carol Benioff. Published by and read with permission from Boyds Mills Press.