{"id":1797,"date":"2018-03-25T16:43:38","date_gmt":"2018-03-25T21:43:38","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.learningtostem.com\/?p=1797"},"modified":"2018-03-25T16:43:38","modified_gmt":"2018-03-25T21:43:38","slug":"big-night-resource-guide","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.learningtostem.com\/big-night-resource-guide\/","title":{"rendered":"All About Big Night: Resource Guide"},"content":{"rendered":"

Have you heard of \u201cBig Night\u201d? If it sounds like a fancy party or event, you\u2019re right, it is\u2014for spotted salamanders and other amphibians. This annual event is a great way to introduce kids to the ecosystems that thrive in their own backyards, local forests, and natural areas. It\u2019s also a great opportunity to spark the interest of young scientists through hands-on exploration of a weird and wonderful biologic event.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a><\/p>\n

\u201cBig Night\u201d is what scientists and ecologists call the spring migration of spotted salamanders and other species that reproduce in vernal pools\u2014the ephemeral, shallow bodies of water of spring. One night (or more often, several nights) every year, usually in late March or early April after the first warm rain of the season, salamanders and frogs migrate together from their overwintering habitats to nearby vernal pools. They cross roads in hordes, marching toward their destination in an awe-inspiring parade.<\/br>
\n\"\"<\/a><\/p>\n

Introducing students to the ecosystems of vernal pools is fun and there are a lot of resources out there to help you get the most out of your efforts. Like any scientific exploration, it\u2019s always good to start with the questions: \u201cWhat is a vernal pool? Who lives there? Where can I find one? Why are they important?\u201d If you\u2019re still buried under deep snow like I am in Vermont, now is a great time to study up indoors. And when the snow finally melts, you\u2019ll be ready to head out with your facts and flashlights to experience Big Night together.<\/p>\n

Some vernal pool and \u201cBig Night\u201d resources:<\/p>\n

Frog Heaven: Ecology of a Vernal Pool<\/div>
\n
This book by wildlife biologist and photographer Doug Weschler is a beautiful and detailed look at the complex ecosystem of a vernal pool.<\/br>
\nThrough photography, graphics, and text, the book explores the life of one pool in Delaware as it cycles through each of the four seasons.<\/br>
\nFrog Heaven<\/em> not only looks at the individual species that rely on and thrive in vernal pools, but also shows their interconnectedness and the importance of protecting the these special places.<\/div><\/div>\n
\n