The days are noticeably longer now — one of the first signs of spring. The skunk cabbage, one of the earliest spring flowers, is in full bloom in wetland areas along the Bockoven Trail and the Wildlife Observation Center boardwalks. It won’t be long before the mating calls of frogs resound in the swamp.
Did you know that during their mating season frogs and toads produce easily recognizable calls? Recognizing their unique vocalizations is a great way to identify these amphibians, often invisible to the eye. The Friends Nature Shop sells a CD with New Jersey frog and toad calls to help you learn the individual species.
March Second Sunday Program
Would you like to learn more about frogs and toads? On Sunday, March 13, naturalist Dorothy Smullen will present a program on the frogs and toads of New Jersey. The indoor slide show will feature each individual species as well as covering their unique calls. Weather permitting, we’ll take a walk on the Bockoven Trail and listen for wood frogs or spring peepers in the vernal pool. This is also a great time for kids to get started on their Junior Refuge Manager badge.
Sunday, March 13, 1:30 – 3:00 pm
Helen C Fenske Visitor Center
32 Pleasant Plains Road, Harding Township, NJ