Vernal Pool

Ephemeral woodland pond

no photo — written note
photo: Wikimedia Commons
Habitats

Fishless spring puddles in the woods where salamanders and wood frogs breed.

Field facts
HabitatDepressions in upland and floodplain forest
RangeStatewide
When to lookWater and breeding February to May
StatusEasily destroyed and rarely mapped (Indiana DNR / IUCN Red List)
Look-alikesFarm pond, Flooded rut

Field note: Having no fish is exactly what makes these pools work as nurseries.

Lesson
Watching responsibly

Never drive through or drain one, and keep dogs out during breeding.

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