New York Warns Drivers as Amphibians Begin Spring Migration

Hundreds of salamanders and frogs will be crossing roads on warm, rainy nights as they head to breeding grounds.

Mar. 14, 2026 at 1:33pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

New York officials are urging residents to be cautious when driving on warm, rainy nights this spring as hundreds of amphibians like salamanders and frogs emerge for their annual breeding migration. The state's Department of Environmental Conservation warns that these creatures will be crossing roads to reach vernal pools, their breeding habitats, creating a risk for drivers. The DEC's Amphibian Migrations and Road Crossings Project has been working with volunteers for 18 years to monitor the roads and protect the migrating amphibians.

Why it matters

Amphibian populations have been declining globally due to factors like habitat loss, pollution, and climate change. This annual migration is a critical part of the life cycle for many species, and protecting them as they cross roads is important for maintaining healthy amphibian populations in New York. The DEC's project also helps raise awareness about the importance of these habitats and engages the community in conservation efforts.

The details

As the weather warms up in March and April, hundreds of amphibians like spotted salamanders, Jefferson-blue salamanders, marbled salamanders, and wood frogs will emerge from their forest habitats to migrate to vernal pools to breed. These small, isolated wetlands provide ideal nursery habitat for the amphibians' young. The DEC warns drivers to be extra cautious on warm, rainy nights when the amphibians are most active and likely to be crossing roads. Volunteers with the DEC's project wear reflective gear and use headlamps to help guide the amphibians safely across the roads.

  • The amphibian migration typically begins in March and continues through early April.
  • The migration is triggered by warm temperatures above 40 degrees and rainy conditions.

The players

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC)

The state agency responsible for managing and protecting New York's natural resources, including wildlife and habitats.

DEC's Amphibian Migrations and Road Crossings Project

An 18-year-old program initiated by the Hudson River Estuary Program and Cornell University that works with volunteers to monitor roads and protect migrating amphibians.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Every year, DEC's Amphibian Migrations and Road Crossings Project draws hundreds of volunteers to help protect salamanders and frogs on the move in the Hudson Valley, migrating from forests to vernal pools.”

— Amanda Lefton, DEC Acting Commissioner (foxweather.com)

What’s next

The DEC's Amphibian Migrations and Road Crossings Project will continue monitoring the roads and recruiting volunteers to help protect the migrating amphibians throughout the spring season.

The takeaway

This annual amphibian migration highlights the importance of protecting critical habitats and the role that community engagement can play in conservation efforts. By working with volunteers to monitor roads and guide the migrating creatures to safety, the DEC is helping to sustain healthy amphibian populations in New York.