Why did the salamander cross the road?

Each spring, a special migration happens when conditions are right in Akron’s Sand Run Metro Park: Salamanders and other amphibians emerge from hibernation and head across the scenic Sand Run Parkway to vernal pools, where they will mate.

WHY SAND RUN METRO PARK?

Amphibians hibernating in Sand Run Metro Park will journey about a half-mile to seasonal pools, or low-lying wet areas. The pools are the perfect spring spot for the creatures to mate and lay eggs. Then they will return to their homes in the forest.

THE JOURNEY

During ideal conditions, visitors can see dozens of colorful salamanders crossing the parkway. Naturalist Meghan Doran says spotted salamanders, two-lined salamanders, dusky salamanders, and other amphibians like American toads and wood frogs could be on their way to the other side of the parkway from March 1 through early April.

COME SEE IT

Visitors can join a Summit Metro Parks naturalist on select nights to attempt to witness the migration in person. When there is light rain and the temperature is above 45 degrees, call 330–865–8060 after 4 p.m. to learn if a program is taking place that evening. Again, the migration often ends in early April.