Amphibians of PNW Ponds and Wetlands
Event Details
How well do you know our local frogs and salamanders? Would you like to meet some of them in person this spring? Join the Institute and Whatcom County Amphibian Monitoring Program (WCAMP) biologists Stephen Nyman and Vikki Jackson for an exciting exploration of amphibian adaptation and survival in the “Anthropocene”—our current epoch of human-caused planetary change.
Oregon Spotted Frog yearling; photo by Stephen Nyman
The wetlands and ponds of the South Fork Valley east of Bellingham, extending south along the Samish River, are home to a fascinating community of amphibians. This region is one of the last strongholds of the federally threatened Oregon Spotted Frog (Rana pretiosa), a species that has disappeared from much of its historic range in western Washington. These fragile habitats also support more common “pond-breeding” frogs and salamanders, creating a unique opportunity to learn about their coexistence.
Photo by Hannah Black
In this June field class, you’ll learn to find, identify, and closely observe several amphibian species, including their aquatic, gilled stages—so bring your camera to document your discoveries! You’ll participate in amphibian searches as your instructors share natural history insights, explain habitat relationships, and highlight WCAMP’s efforts to restore Oregon Spotted Frog habitat on a Whatcom Land Trust property.
Photo by Hannah Black
Your course tuition includes enrollment in the virtual class Exploring Hidden Worlds: Frogs and Salamanders of the Puget Trough, which will provide valuable background and context for this hands-on field experience.
Oregon Spotted Frog tadpole; photo by Stephen Nyman
Top photo: Northwestern Salamander paedomorphic adult; by Stephen Nyman