Cold-blooded creatures begin spring awakening

Each year in late February and early March, Northeast Ohio begins a transformation many welcome – the arrival of spring. After a long winter in Medina, the return of grass and budding plants signals a shift, and with rising temperatures, cold-blooded animals are becoming more active.

Frogs, toads, salamanders, snakes and turtles begin to appear as conditions improve. As snow melts and spring rain fills woodland depressions, frogs and salamanders migrate to these areas, called vernal pools, to breed. Vernal pools hold water during winter and spring and may dry out in summer, making them ideal breeding grounds since fish that prey on amphibians cannot survive there.

Each species follows a slightly different schedule, triggered mainly by temperature and moisture. Among the earliest arrivals in much of the eastern United States are wood frogs, spring peepers and spotted salamanders.

Of these, the spring peeper is often the most noticeable. Though only about an inch long, its call is loud and distinct. Many consider its high-pitched chirp one of the first true signs of spring. On calm evenings when temperatures reach around 40 degrees, their calls can be heard near ditches, ponds and marshes. Spring peepers are often identified by the distinctive “X” marking on their backs.

Wood frogs are known for their ability to survive freezing temperatures during winter. Because they overwinter in shallow leaf litter, they are often among the first to emerge. In breeding pools, males make a repetitive quacking sound to attract mates. Their brown or olive coloring and dark facial mask provide camouflage among forest leaves.

The spotted salamander, Ohio’s state salamander, also emerges during early spring. On warm, rainy nights above 45 degrees, they migrate from underground shelters to vernal pools in what is often called a “big event,” a synchronized movement triggered by weather conditions.

As these animals begin to move, residents are encouraged to stay alert on warm, wet nights, especially near ponds, marshes and wooded areas. Many amphibians must cross roads to reach breeding sites, so slowing down and staying aware can help protect them during this seasonal migration.