Cows are mammals that have been introduced to this ecosystem by people. Although most exotic weeds can't invade the claypan pools, they are occasionally found in the higher elevation mima mound plant community. Light foraging by cows can be beneficial for controlling these invasive weeds. This toad's only protection is camouflage. It probably thinks that it is hiding, but it's really having it's picture taken.
Vernal pools are famous for their amazing springtime color.
This photogenic time period only lasts a few weeks each year, so you'll have to plan to see it. Because the peak bloom time depends on rainfall totals, the timing of storms, temperature, and day length, the calendar is not the only gauge you should use for planning. Because they are only found growing in drying, vernal pool bottoms, they are considered a vernal pool obligate, a species that grows only in vernal pools. Like woolly marbles, it is also found on the muddy edges of drying vernal pools but grows more erect than the prostrate woolly marbles. So now you know a little about what to expect when you visit the Herbert Wetland Prairie Preserve.