Amphibious creatures come from afar. A temporary pond for tadpoles to grow. A vernal pool is a small shallow pond forming in the spring with rain and snow melt. They last for only 2 or 3 months until their water evaporates. Many frogs and salamanders lay eggs in these temporary pools which do not contain any fish.
Vernal pools provide an exciting example of an observable microhabitat.
The pools burst to life in the spring yet are filled with lessons to be learned all year long. Watching the pool through a school year opens children's senses and imaginations to the events that make that place unique. At the Harris Center, we have visited vernal pools in southwestern New Hampshire with hundreds of 4th and 5th grade students and teachers. From witnessing salamander migration to hearing the quacking of wood frogs, our experiences have helped to open many eyes to the magic of these special wetlands. Below you will find a brief sampling of the activities that help make vernal pools the place to be in winter, spring, summer and fall.