A Helping Hand for Amphibians
As the earth thaws and spring rains drench New Hampshire, thousands of salamanders, frogs, and toads make their way to vernal pools to breed. Many are killed when their journeys take them across busy roads. Each spring, we train volunteers to serve on Salamander Crossing Brigades at amphibian road crossings throughout the Monadnock Region. These heroic citizen scientists count migrating amphibians and safely usher the animals across roads during one or more “Big Nights.”
Since 2007, our Crossing Brigades have moved more than 47,250 amphibians out of harm’s way! To join their ranks — or simply to learn more about the remarkable amphibian migration — join us for a volunteer training, review our volunteer handbook or FAQ, or contact Brett Amy Thelen.
A Salamander Crossing Brigade volunteer holds a wood frog in her hands. (photo © Brett Amy Thelen)
A smiling Salamander Crossing Brigade volunteer holds a smiling spotted salamander. (photo © Jess Baum)
A Salamander Crossing Brigadier moves a Jefferson salamander across Jordan Road, Keene, NH. (photo © Sigrid Scholz)
A wood frog crosses North Lincoln Street, Keene, NH. (photo © Brett Amy Thelen)
A young Crossing Brigade volunteer gazes in wonder at a spotted salamander. (photo © Brett Amy Thelen)
A Salamander Crossing Brigadier moves a spotted salamander across Summer Street, Peterborough, NH. (photo © Tyler Hogan)
To volunteer or for more information, please contact Brett Amy Thelen at (603) 358-2065 or by email.