Preparing for My FrogWatch Season

It is a warm day in February and it seemed like just the right time to clean up around the pond. I scooped some leaves from the bottom and raked around the edges. Then I decided to add four "treefrog houses." I had read that treefrogs willingly take up residence inside chunks of 1 1/2" PVC pipe that has been pounded into the ground. This makes a certain amount of sense. The rainwater that trickles inside the pipe will keep the habitat moist and dark, just as the frogs like it.

Then I decided to improve on the natural treefrog abodes in my two Bradford Pear trees. As you can see, I used some bark to more completely enclose the space between a natural V in the tree trunks. By watering those areas down from time to time I hope to make them inviting enough for the gray treefrogs in the area.


I don't expect to hear or see any frogs for another month, but I did get to enjoy one herping delight as I was working outside. The faucet which turns on the outside hose is actually below ground in a hole that I cover with styrofoam so that the pipe doesn't freeze. When I got down into the damp, muddy enclosure to turn on the faucet for the first time this spring, I was quite delighted to see a spotted salamander. I didn't want to risk hurting him by catching him so I can't post a picture. But here is link to a photo by Kory Roberts that shows the handsome critter.

Though I may not get to hear any frogs after dark tonight, I'm looking forward with equal eagerness to seeing Jupiter at opposition through my 8" scope. One of the pleasures of living way out in the boonies is that we have a true dark sky location. Here is a link to a web page that shows the sad story of light pollution in North America.