Jefferson Salamander at Cincinnati Nature Center
You may need to go out of your way to see mole salamanders but it is totally worth it. We hope this podcast will inspire you to go out some warm and rainy early spring night to look for mole salamanders.
Our sources for this episode include:
Thanks to the recommendation of Robyn Wright Strauss at the Edge of Appalachia Preserve I checked out children’s books featuring mole salamanders. Here are 3 keepers:
The Secret Pool by Kimberly Ridley introduces young readers to the wonders of a vernal pool. The illustrations by Rebekah Raye are enchanting. There are two narratives on opposite sides of the pages, one for younger readers, 5 and up, and the other offering more scientific information for grades 3-4.
Big Night for Salamanders by Sarah Marwil Lamstein, Art by Carol Benioff follows Evan and his parents on the first warm rainy night of spring as they seek to help hundreds of spotted salamanders crawl out of the woods and across the road to the pond where they will breed and lay their eggs. Wonderful story appropriate for preschool – grade 4.
Salamander Dance by David Fitzsimmons also follows the annual life cycle of the spotted salamanders. The illustrations by Michael DiGiorgio are superb. Kindergarteners through Grade 3 will enjoy the narrative of the salamander dance while exploring the visual overview of the vernal pool habitat.
Thanks Beth!