_{Vernal Pool Photo by Dennis P. Quinn}

In early spring, as the snow melts away, you may come upon shallow pools or wetlands during your walks in the woods. These are vernal pools, formed by natural depressions in the forest. These pools can be big or small and they dry up completely by late summer. They are wonders of nature that are an essential part of the forest and wetland ecosystem. Wood frogs, some salamanders and fairy shrimp depend on them to breed. Other species, in turn, depend on the frogs, salamanders and shrimp for food. 

Spring Migration  

On the first spring evening that is rainy and in the 40s, the wood frogs and salamanders begin their migration from their upland winter homes to the vernal pools to breed. Take care driving on those nights. You may see frogs hopping across the road at night, or you may see volunteers with flash lights keeping a lookout for frogs and salamanders and helping them cross to safety.

Once at the pool, they breed and lay egg masses, which become tadpoles and then frogs and salamanders. In October, on the first rainy night in the 40s, the frogs and salamanders migrate to the uplands to overwinter. This is another time to take care and look out for these amphibians and their human helpers. 

Want to help wood frogs migrate safely? Go to the Big Night web page to learn how. _{Spotted Salamander Photo by Dennis P. Quinn}

Vernal Pools Provide for Other Creatures, Too

The pools attract other visitors as well. Several species of turtles, small mammals, amphibians such as spring peepers, and a variety of insects loiter in these pools. These bring predators, such as migratory birds and foxes. The web of life in the forest relies on these little bodies of water.

Vernal Pool Ecosystems are Endangered

Some, but not all, vernal pools are protected in Maine, but they are all endangered by the loss of forests. As more forested land is developed, the pools become surrounded. Wood frogs and salamanders no longer have uplands to migrate to, and other animals are cut off from the pools as well. The pools no longer provide their essential role in the ecosystem. 

_{Wood frog photo by Dawn Morgan}

What You Can Do

•    Many  vernal pools in Kennebunk have not been mapped. If you think you might have a vernal pool on your property, contact the Conservation Commission or Maine DEP.

•    Educate yourself and become an advocate for vernal pools. 

•    Educate others about the importance of vernal pools and the need to protect them. 

To learn more about vernal pools, see the Maine Audubon factsheet.

If you want to dig even deeper, go to the Of Pools and People website.