Why did the Jefferson salamander cross the road?
To get to the other side, of course, but more importantly, to find a mate.
The City of Burlington has once again closed a typically busy road to allow the salamander safe passage to its breeding ground.
King Road will be shut down until April 9 so that the Jeffersons can reach nearby run-off ponds to start their annual ritual.
Since 2012, Burlington has closed this same stretch of road every year at this time for the salamanders to cross, which has been a lifesaver for them.
Jefferson salamanders spend most of their lives underground. But during wet spring nights, adult salamanders migrate to their breeding ponds.
They are drawn to the ponds where they were born and can be quite determined to get there, sometimes crossing busy roads in their journey. That’s why Burlington has stepped up to ensure safe passage.
Once safely at the ponds, they lay their eggs in clumps attached to underwater plants. After breeding, adults leave the ponds. By late summer, the larvae lose their gills and become air-breathing juveniles before heading into nearby forests.
The Jefferson salamander has a grey or brown back with lighter underparts. You might see blue flecks on their sides and limbs. They can grow up to 20 cm long, with half of that being tail length.
When they’re not dodging traffic, these salamanders can live as long as 30 years.
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They are drawn to the ponds where they were born and can be quite determined to get there, sometimes crossing busy roads in their journey. That’s why Burlington has stepped up to ensure safe passage.
Once safely at the ponds, they lay their eggs in clumps attached to underwater plants. After breeding, adults leave the ponds. By late summer, the larvae lose their gills and become air-breathing juveniles before heading into nearby forests.
The Jefferson salamander has a grey or brown back with lighter underparts. You might see blue flecks on their sides and limbs. They can grow up to 20 cm long, with half of that being tail length.
When they’re not dodging traffic, these salamanders can live as long as 30 years.
INsauga’s Editorial Standards and Policies
Last 30 Days: 34,893 Votes
All Time: 1,268,306 Votes
350 VOTES
Source link
