UNITY (NEWS CENTER Maine) -- Amphibian populations in Maine are challenged by urban sprawl and disease. One challenge to their annual reproduction process is crossing highly traveled roads.
That's why the Unity College Herpetology Club and several other Maine conservation organizations get together to help the frogs.
"Often on the first Big Night of the year, a number of amphibians will be hit while crossing roads," said Dr. Matthew Chatfield of Unity College.
That's what causes the Herpetology Club to swing into action.
A dozen or so students were out in the rain. Ideally, the temperature will be close to fifty. Their first attempt this season turned into a scouting mission as temperatures remained in the high thirties.
Still, they found a few wood frogs, spotted salamanders and blue salamanders, three amphibians that breed in vernal pools.
"A lot of people don't understand what it means when we say we are going herping," said Greg LeClair of Litchfield. "However more people are becoming familiar with it."
The club is hopeful Mainers will be aware that amphibians need our help because disease and sprawl have caused their numbers to dwindle.
In the next couple of weeks or so, you may see frog migrations on the road. They hope you will miss the frogs and take part in Big Night efforts in your community.