Springtime Pond Chorus
April 15, 2002
Provided by: Martin Ruzek, USRA
Summary authors & editors: Martin Ruzek
The winter snow has melted leaving pools of water in the fields and woods of northeastern Wisconsin, an early spring home for wood frogs (Rana sylvatica) and other species. A photo doesn't do justice to the cacophony of amphibian voices, well aware of the photographer's presence, but quickly resuming their chorus following a few moments of motionless caution. In a few weeks, the scene will be considerably greener, and the clear water will be alive with tadpoles and swimming insects, including mosquito larvae waiting to add their own hum to the din. By mid summer, this pond will be gone. These ephemeral ponds or vernal pools provide important habitats for amphibian populations and serve as stop overs (and lunch counters...) for migratory waterfowl.
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