Hudson Valley Volunteers Help Thousands of Salamanders Cross Roads During Migration

Annual Salamander & Frog Migration Begins in New York State

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation is reminding New York drivers of the annual breeding migrations for forest salamanders and frogs.

This migrations occurs between March and early April as "the ground starts to thaw, it's raining and the night air temperature is above 40F" according to the NYS DEC.

They go on to explain that during this time of year spotted salamander, Jefferson-blue spotted salamander complex, and wood frogs will "emerge from their winter shelters in the forest."

They will hop and slither their way to breeding wetlands, also known as vernal pools. Their trip to these vernal pools become dangerous as they cross busy roadways.

That's where local volunteers step in.

Volunteers Gather to Help Salamanders Cross Dangerous Roads

This year marks the 18th year of the New York State Department of Environmental Conservations Amphibian Migrations Project.

The DEC reports that since the project began in 2009, over 1,000 volunteers in the Hudson Valley "have helped more than 51,000 salamanders, frogs and toads across roadways."

While the volunteers help the amphibians navigate they've also collected "important data on amphibian species, numbers, weather, and traffic."

The DEC also took the time to stress to be alert while driving during the early spring months, they write "On these warm, rainy nights of early spring, please be on the look-out for volunteers and amphibians on the road."

They add:

Animals To Be On The Look Out For This Spring Across The Hudson Valley

As the weather begins to warm up, more animals are emerging from their hibernations across the region.

Local governments are reminding their community members to be cautious as bears are leaving their dens after their semi-hibernation. A post from Town of Shandaken New York explains that homeowners should bring in any kind of food sources, like bird feeders, by mid-March.

They also remind the community to move trash cans into sheds or garages, or bear proof them.

READ MORE: Black Bears Return to the Region as Spring Approaches

Coyotes seem to be an issue right now in Westchester County. During the week of March 9th, 2026, a coyote attacked 6 dogs and 3 humans.

Later, after the coyote was killed by local law enforcement, Westchester County announced the coyote tested positive for rabies. 

Coyotes are out and about January through March, as it is their mating season. Coyotes are more visible during this time and may become more territorial.