Salamander Forecast

May 10, 2025

The majority of the spring amphibian migration has come to an end. Stragglers will certainly migrate back to the woods from their breeding wetlands whenever it next rains at night — and you may still find toads, gray tree frogs, and spring peepers migrating to their breeding sites on warm, rainy nights throughout the month of May — but concentrated Big Nights are likely over for the year. We’ll start updating the salamander forecast again in early spring 2026.

Stay alert, however, as frogs and toads will be out and about on rainy nights all summer long — especially on roads near wetlands, lakes, and ponds!

May 8, 2025

Rain looks likely tonight and tomorrow night. Although migration season is winding down, a few amphibians could be on the move once the rain moves in. Tonight’s the better bet, as Friday’s temperatures will only be in the 40s. Although that would have been perfect for a Big Night earlier in the season, it will likely be too cold for significant amphibian movement now that the cold-hearty, early-season amphibians have mostly completed their migrations and only the warmth-loving toads and gray tree frogs are left.

If it’s raining after dark and you’re up for one last amphibian adventure, don your reflective vest, grab your flashlight, and head to your nearest crossing to see if frogs are still afoot! If you go, don’t forget to submit any counts and photos via the online forms on our Volunteer Materials page.

Safety note: North Lincoln Street and Jordan Road will not be closed to traffic tonight, and Site Coordinators will not be present at any site, so only trained Crossing Brigadiers in proper safety attire should head out in search of amphibians tonight.

May 6, 2025

In the first few hours after sunset last night, roads were wet, temperatures were in the 50s, and sprinkles popped up from time to time. Earlier in the season, those exact conditions prompted a Big Night — but last night, far fewer frogs were afoot.

Given last night’s activity (or lack thereof), it’s unlikely that we’ll have another Big Night this spring, though some additional amphibian movement is certainly possible if it’s raining after dark in the next week or so, especially on balmier nights. We’ll keep the forecast going just a little while longer, for those of you who want to head out in search of toads, gray tree frogs, and other late-spring amphibians one last time…

May 5, 2025

Gray tree frogs, spring peepers, American toads, and even a few spotted and Jefferson salamanders were on the move in last night’s heavy rain. The spotted salamanders, Jefferson salamanders, wood frogs, and many of the peepers were leaving their breeding wetlands — confirmation that we are nearing the end of the migration season — but gray tree frogs were heading toward the wetlands for the first time this spring. Some sites may already be done for the year, but last night’s gray tree frog push has us wondering whether there isn’t just a bit more migration to come…

Rain is expected both tonight and tomorrow night. At this point in the spring, every rainy night inches us closer to the end of migration season, and it’s tough to know which will be the last — which is to say that we don’t necessarily expect a Big Night either night, but if any amphibians have yet to make their move, they could do it tonight or tomorrow.

If it’s raining after dark and you’re up for one last amphibian adventure, don your reflective vest, grab your flashlight, and head to your nearest crossing to see if frogs are still afoot! If you go, don’t forget to submit any counts and photos via the online forms on our Volunteer Materials page. We’re especially interested in hearing what percentage of amphibians were heading away from the wetlands — as well as reports from people who went out in perfect conditions but did not find amphibians — as this helps us gauge just how close we are to the end of salamander season. You can include that info in a note at the end of the “Submit Counts” form.

If you’re looking for company on the road in the Monadnock Region, you will find Site Coordinators at Jordan Road (Keene), North Lincoln Street (Keene), and Summer Street (Peterborough).

The North Lincoln Street crossing site in Keene will be closed to vehicles after 8 p.m. tonight, and Jordan Road in Keene will be closed to through-traffic as well. Although visitors are welcome at the North Lincoln Street crossing site, we ask that only trained Salamander Crossing Brigade volunteers in proper safety attire come to the Jordan Road crossing. You can find more information on the Keene amphibian detours here.

May 4, 2025

Significant rainfall is in the forecast for tonight. If it were earlier in the season, we’d be gearing up for a classic Big Night. Now that we’re into May, however, many wood frogs, spotted salamanders, and other early spring amphibians have already completed their migrations and are settling into their early summer lives. At this point in the spring, every rainy night inches us closer to the end of migration season, and it’s tough to know which will be the last — which is to say that we don’t necessarily expect a Big Night, but if any amphibians have yet to make their move, tonight would be an awfully good night for it.

If it’s raining after dark, don your reflective vest, grab your flashlight, and head to your nearest crossing to see if amphibians are still afoot! If you go, don’t forget to submit any counts and photos via the online forms on our Volunteer Materials page. We’re especially interested in hearing what percentage of amphibians were heading away from the wetlands — as well as reports from people who went out in perfect conditions but did not find amphibians — as this helps us gauge just how close we are to the end of salamander season. You can include that info in a note at the end of the “Submit Counts” form.

If you’re looking for company on the road in the Monadnock Region, you will find Site Coordinators at Jordan Road (Keene), North Lincoln Street (Keene), Nelson Road (Nelson), Summer Street (Peterborough), Swanzey Lake Road (Swanzey), and Forest Lake Road (Winchester).

The North Lincoln Street crossing site in Keene will be closed to vehicles after 8 p.m. tonight, and Jordan Road in Keene will be closed to through-traffic as well. Although visitors are welcome at the North Lincoln Street crossing site, we ask that only trained Salamander Crossing Brigade volunteers in proper safety attire come to the Jordan Road crossing. You can find more information on the Keene amphibian detours here.

May 3, 2025

Another night, another surprise rainstorm! Last night, rain once again arrived with very little warning, and gray tree frogs, toads, peepers, and other amphibians were on the move. THANK YOU to the Brigadiers who sprang into action when they saw the raindrops! We’ll share more details on our Field Reports page once the counts have been tallied; if you have counts or photos to share, please submit them via the online forms on our Volunteer Materials page.

Rain seems likely again this afternoon and evening, though there might be a significant gap between afternoon thunderstorms and late-night showers, which could lead to dry roads for the sunset-to-midnight hours. If the ground is dry, we would not expect amphibian activity — but if the timing shifts and rain moves through between sunset and midnight, frogs and toads could be afoot. At this point in the spring, every rainy night inches us closer to the end of migration season, and it’s tough to know which will be the last, though it’s certainly worth checking things out tonight if conditions look good.

If you’re awake when it’s raining after dark, don your reflective vest, grab your flashlight, and head to your nearest crossing! If you go, don’t forget to submit any counts and photos via the online forms on our Volunteer Materials page. We’re especially interested in hearing what percentage of amphibians were heading away from their breeding wetlands — as well as reports from people who went out in perfect conditions but did not find amphibians — as this helps us gauge how close we are to the end of salamander season. You can include that info in a note at the end of the “Submit Counts” form.

Safety note: Thunderstorms are a possibility this evening, and this requires extra caution. If you hear thunder, see lightning, or experience strong winds at any point tonight, take shelter immediately. The CDC and National Weather Service recommend staying indoors (or in your car) for 30 minutes following the last clap of thunder or lightning. You can learn more here.

If you’re looking for company on the road in the Monadnock Region, you might find Site Coordinators at Jordan Road (Keene), North Lincoln Street (Keene), Summer Street (Peterborough), Swanzey Lake Road (Swanzey), Glebe Road (Westmoreland), and Forest Lake Road (Winchester) — but only if it’s raining and not if there’s thunder or lightning. North Lincoln Street and Jordan Road will not be closed to traffic, so only trained Crossing Brigadiers in proper safety attire should visit those crossing sites tonight.

May 2, 2025

We’re in for an extended period of wet weather. At this point in the spring, every rainy night inches us toward the end of migration season, and it’s tough to know which will be the last. Although we’ve listed “maybe” for most nights, it’s possible the migration could peter out before next week. Right now, Saturday and Sunday look the most promising — both because the chance of rain is higher and because they’re the first of several possible rainy nights. After that initial push, there might simply be fewer frogs who have yet to make their move. Stay tuned!

May 1, 2025

We’re in for an extended period of wet weather. At this point in the spring, every rainy night inches us toward the end of migration season, and it’s tough to know which will be the last. Although we’ve listed “maybe” for most nights, it’s possible the migration could peter out before next week. Right now, Saturday looks the most promising — both because the chance of rain is higher and because it’s the first of several possible rainy nights. After that initial push, there might simply be fewer frogs who have yet to make their move. There’s also a chance of showers starting around 2 a.m. tonight. Most of us will be sleeping, but if you’re a night owl, this could be your time to shine!

If the rain arrives and you’re still awake, don your reflective vest, grab your flashlight, and head to your nearest crossing to see if amphibians are afoot! If you go, don’t forget to submit any counts and photos via the online forms on our Volunteer Materials page. We’re especially interested in hearing what percentage of amphibians were heading away from their breeding wetlands — as well as reports from people who went out in perfect conditions but did not find amphibians — as this helps us gauge how close we are to the end of salamander season. You can include that info in a note at the end of the “Submit Counts” form.

Safety note: North Lincoln Street and Jordan Road will not be closed to traffic tonight, and Site Coordinators will not be present in the wee hours at any site, so only trained Crossing Brigadiers in proper safety attire should head out in search of salamanders tonight.

April 30, 2025

We’re guessing amphibians were out and about in last night’s late rain, though we don’t have any reports to show for it. At this point in the spring, every rainy night inches us toward the end of migration season and it’s tough to know which night will be the last — but we’ll keep the forecast going a little while longer, as toads, gray tree frogs, and other late-season migrants may still be on the move in the week to come (and we’d love to reach the 10,000-rescue mark for the season before all is said and done…) 

Looking ahead, rainy weather is in the forecast for the weekend. Right now, Saturday looks the most promising, but it’s too soon to say for sure. Stay tuned!

April 29, 2025

As of 4:30 p.m., a chance of showers has now popped into the forecast around 11 p.m. tonight. If they arrive and linger long enough to soak the ground, toads, gray tree frogs, and other late-season migrants could be on the move while most of us are getting ready for bed.

If the rain arrives and you’re still awake, don your reflective vest, grab your flashlight, and head to your nearest crossing to see if amphibians are afoot! If you go, don’t forget to submit any counts and photos via the online forms on our Volunteer Materials page. At this point in the season, it’s tough to know which migration night will be the last, so we’re especially interested in hearing what percentage of amphibians were heading away from their breeding wetlands — as well as reports from people who went out in perfect conditions but did not find amphibians — as this helps us gauge how close we are to the end of salamander season. You can include that info in a note at the end of the “Submit Counts” form.

Safety note: North Lincoln Street and Jordan Road will not be closed to traffic tonight and Site Coordinators will not be present in the wee hours at any site, so only trained Crossing Brigadiers in proper safety attire should head out in search of salamanders tonight.

April 27, 2025

Amphibians were on the move on wet roads last night, but in smaller numbers than if it had been actively raining. Although American toads and gray tree frogs were still migrating toward their breeding wetlands, spotted salamanders were largely heading back to the woods — a sign that we’re nearing the end of migration season. We’ll share more details on our Field Reports page once the counts have been tallied; if you have counts or photos to share, please submit them via the online forms on our Volunteer Materials page.

At this point in the season, it’s tough to know which migration night will be the last — it’s possible that we’ll simply start to see smaller and smaller numbers with each successive rainy night — but we’ll keep the forecast going a little while longer. Right now, the end of the week holds promise, though it’s too soon to say for sure. Stay tuned!

April 26, 2025

Twice in the past week, nighttime rain arrived without warning, even up to an hour beforehand. Needless to say, this kind of thing makes predicting the migration even trickier than usual! As of noon, the weather forecast is calling for today’s rain to wrap up just before nightfall. If the ground is still wet after dark, amphibians will likely be on the move — and with temperatures in the low 60s and upper 50s, it could be Big, at least until the ground dries. However, if the rain ends earlier and the ground is dry by sunset, amphibian activity could be minimal. In other words: migration is possible, but it’s not a sure thing, and it could vary site by site. Timing is everything here, so paying attention to your local conditions will be especially important.

If the ground is wet after dark where you are, don your reflective vest, grab your flashlight, and head to your nearest crossing to see if amphibians are afoot! If you go, don’t forget to submit any counts and photos via the online forms on our Volunteer Materials page. At this point in the season, it’s tough to know which migration night will be the last, so we’re also interested in hearing what percentage of amphibians were heading away from their breeding wetlands — as well as reports from people who went out in perfect conditions but did not find amphibians — as this helps us gauge how close we are to the end of salamander season. You can include that info in a note at the end of the “Submit Counts” form.

If you’re looking for company on the road in the Monadnock Region, you will find Site Coordinators at River Road (Henniker), Jordan Road (Keene), North Lincoln Street (Keene), Nelson Road (Nelson), Summer Street (Peterborough), Whiting Hill Road (Wilton), and Forest Lake Road (Winchester).

Safety note: North Lincoln Street and Jordan Road will not be closed to traffic, so only trained Crossing Brigadiers in proper safety attire should visit those crossing sites tonight.

April 25, 2025

Last night, with almost no advance notice, a band of rain moved through the region between 7 p.m. and midnight. For the second time in less than a week, there was no indication of this in the weather forecast, even up to an hour beforehand. It’s almost as if the National Weather Service no longer has the resources they need to accurately track storm systems. Needless to say, this kind of thing makes predicting the migration even trickier than usual! We didn’t have time to get the word out about last night’s rain, but we know from the dozen or so Brigadiers who were able to mobilize quickly that it was a Big Night at some sites — and that some amphibians are starting to make their way back to the woods, their courtship done for the year.

Still, the next few nights of rain and continued warm temperatures could prompt continued migration. At the moment, it appears that tonight’s rain won’t arrive until 2 or 3 a.m. (Given what happened last night, you should take that with as many grains of salt as you like!)  If and when it arrives, amphibians will likely be afoot — but most of us won’t be awake to see it. Tomorrow looks like a better bet for early evening rain, but it’s too soon to say for sure.

If you’re still awake when tonight’s rain arrives and you’re up for the adventure, don your reflective vest, grab your flashlight, and head to your nearest crossing to see if amphibians are afoot! If you go, don’t forget to submit any counts and photos via the online forms on our Volunteer Materials page. At this point in the season, it’s tough to know which migration night will be the last, so we’re especially interested in hearing what percentage of amphibians were heading away from their breeding wetlands — as well as reports from people who went out in perfect conditions but did not find amphibians — as this helps us gauge how close we are to the end of salamander season. You can include that info in a note at the end of the “Submit Counts” form.

Safety note: North Lincoln Street and Jordan Road will not be closed to traffic tonight and Site Coordinators will not be present in the wee hours at any site, so only trained Crossing Brigadiers in proper safety attire should head out in search of salamanders tonight.

April 23, 2025

Our next chance for warm rain is Friday into Saturday, though much of the rain may come in the wee hours Friday night and during the day on Saturday. A small shift in timing could make a big difference, so stay tuned!

April 21, 2025

Wood frog eggs are now appearing in vernal pools throughout the Monadnock Region, and Saturday’s surprise Big Night had many wood frogs (and even some peepers) heading away from their breeding wetlands, their courtship done for the year — a sign that we’ve passed the midpoint of the season. Spotties, toads, and gray tree frogs were still moving toward the wetlands, however, so the next few rainy nights could bring continued migration. 46-degree rain is on the radar for tonight, but not until after midnight — good news for the amphibians, who will have fewer cars to contend with, but less exciting for us Brigadiers, who will likely be asleep by then.

If you’re still awake when tonight’s rain arrives and you’re up for the adventure, don your reflective vest, grab your flashlight, and head to your nearest crossing to see if amphibians are afoot. If it’s your first time on the amphibian beat this season, please review these important reminders for Big Nights before heading out — and don’t forget to submit any counts and photos via the online forms on our Volunteer Materials page.

Safety note: North Lincoln Street and Jordan Road will not be closed to traffic tonight and Site Coordinators will not be present in the wee hours at any site, so only trained Crossing Brigadiers in proper safety attire should head out in search of salamanders tonight.

April 20, 2025

The rain we were sort of expecting yesterday (just before sunset) never materialized, but heavy rain that was not at all in the forecast (starting around 8:30 and continuing for several hours) did, at least in some locations. Where it was wet, thousands of frogs and salamanders were on the move in true Big Night fashion. THANK YOU to all the Brigadiers who sprang into action at a moment’s notice! We’ll share more details on our Field Reports page once the counts have been tallied; if you have counts or photos to share, please submit them via the online forms on our Volunteer Materials page.

Looking ahead, our next big chance for warm-enough rain is on Monday night, though the current forecast has it arriving after midnight, when most of us will be slumbering. As we all know by know, things could well change — so stay tuned, and keep your eyes to the skies!

April 19, 2025

Update at 4:30 p.m.: Tonight is yet another case of Could Be Big, Could Be Nothing. The forecast has been swinging wildly: in the last hour alone, we went from no rain all night to a 100 percent chance of rain just before sunset. At this point, your guess is as good as ours! If it rains around sunset and the roads are wet after dark, amphibians will likely be afoot — at least until the ground dries. If it doesn’t rain, they’ll probably sit tight. In other words, a Big Night is possible, but it’s not a sure thing, and it could vary site by site. Paying attention to your local conditions will be especially important tonight.

If the ground is wet after dark in your neck of the woods, amphibians will likely be on the move! If it’s your first time on the amphibian beat this season, please review these important reminders for Big Nights before heading out — and don’t forget to submit any counts and photos via the online forms on our Volunteer Materials page.

If you’re looking for company on the road in the Monadnock Region, you will find Site Coordinators at Jordan Road (Keene), North Lincoln Street (Keene), Swanzey Lake Road (Swanzey), Glebe Road (Westmoreland), and Whiting Hill Road (Wilton) — but only if it’s wet and there is amphibian activity.

Safety note: North Lincoln Street and Jordan Road will not be closed to traffic, so only trained Crossing Brigadiers in proper safety attire should visit those crossing sites tonight.

April 17, 2025

There’s a chance of showers just before sunset on Saturday. When paired with Saturday’s 70-degree temperatures, any wet ground after dark could lead to amphibian movement — but it’s far from certain. Monday’s forecast looks more promising, though it’s too soon to say for sure. Stay tuned!

April 16, 2025

Rain moved through around 5 p.m. last night, leaving some roads still wet at nightfall, but the ground dried more quickly than expected. Some intrepid peepers were out and about but, for the most part, amphibian activity was limited to the frogsong in the wetlands. Looking ahead, there are no classic Big Night forecasts in the near view, but Saturday’s 70-degree temperatures could lead to some migration if showers move through after dark. Of course, lots could change between now and then. Stay tuned!

April 15, 2025

Wood frogs and spring peepers were singing with gusto in yesterday’s balmy temperatures, and amphibian eggs are starting to appear in vernal pools. At last, spring is springing! Pockets of showers are moving through the region this afternoon, and evening temperatures are expected to be in the low 50s and upper 40s. If the ground stays wet after dark — a big if — the combination of warm temperatures and wet ground could lead to some migration, at least until the roads dry. In other words: migration is possible, but it’s not a sure thing, and it could vary site by site. Paying attention to your local conditions will be especially important tonight.

If the ground is wet after dark in your neck of the woods, amphibians will likely be on the move! If it’s your first time on the amphibian beat this season, please review these important reminders for Big Nights before heading out — and don’t forget to submit any counts and photos via the online forms on our Volunteer Materials page.

If you’re looking for company on the road in the Monadnock Region, you will find Site Coordinators at North Lincoln Street (Keene), Nelson Road (Nelson), Summer Street (Peterborough), and Whiting Hill Road (Wilton) — at least as long as the roads are wet and there is amphibian activity.

Safety note: North Lincoln Street and Jordan Road will not be closed to traffic tonight, so only trained Crossing Brigadiers in proper safety attire should visit those crossing sites tonight.

April 14, 2025

Temperatures are finally feeling spring-like, and there’s a 50% chance of showers after midnight. If it rains, amphibians could be on the move while most of us are sleeping.

If you’re still awake when (and if) tonight’s rain arrives and you’re up for the adventure, don your reflective vest and flashlight and head to your nearest crossing to see what you can see! If it’s your first time on the amphibian beat this season, please review these important reminders for Big Nights before heading out — and don’t forget to submit any counts and photos via the online forms on our Volunteer Materials page.

Safety note: North Lincoln Street and Jordan Road will not be closed to traffic tonight and Site Coordinators will not be present in the wee hours at any site, so only trained Crossing Brigadiers in proper safety attire should head out in search of salamanders tonight.

April 11, 2025

Wet weather is in store from now through Tuesday afternoon, but right now the timing and/or temperature do not look promising for a migration — which is to say that much of the precipitation is currently predicted to arrive after the mercury has dropped into the 30s, and sometimes in the form of snow. Monday looks the most promising, though that rain is currently expected to move through after midnight, when most of us won’t be awake to see it. That said, a small shift in timing or temperature could make a big difference. Stay tuned!

April 10, 2025

Update at 4:30 p.m.: The bulk of tonight’s rain is predicted to begin around 11 p.m., after temperatures have dipped into the high 30s. If that forecast holds, it will be too cold for a migration. However, there is a 30% chance of showers earlier in the evening. If those showers linger long enough to soak the ground, amphibians could be on the move in places where temperatures are still lingering in the 40s. Paying attention to your local conditions will be important tonight.

If it’s raining and above 40° in your neck of the woods after dark, amphibians could be on the move — at least until the mercury drops. If you want to search for some cold-hearty frogs and it’s your first time on the amphibian beat this season, please review these important reminders for Big Nights before heading out — and don’t forget to submit any counts and photos via the online forms on our Volunteer Materials page.

Safety note: North Lincoln Street and Jordan Road will not be closed to traffic tonight and Site Coordinators will not be present, so only trained Crossing Brigadiers in proper safety attire should visit those sites tonight.

April 9, 2025

Wet weather is in store from Thursday through Sunday, but right now the timing and/or temperature do not look promising for a migration — which is to say that much of the rain is currently predicted to arrive after the mercury has dropped into the 30s. That said, a small shift in timing or temperature could make a big difference. Stay tuned!

April 6, 2025

Last night was wet, but it was chilly too. Intrepid Brigadiers scouted the scene at a few crossing sites where temperatures were hovering around 40° and found a handful of determined frogs, but it seems that most amphibians were waiting for a warmer evening. We’re now entering a period of frog-unfriendly temperatures, but wet, warm weather is expected to return on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. Right now, Friday looks like the most promising of the three nights, but it’s too soon to say for sure. Stay tuned!

April 5, 2025

Showers are likely after sunset, but temperatures will be right on the cusp of frog-friendliness. Paying attention to your local conditions will be especially important tonight. If the ground is wet after dark, amphibians could be on the move in places where temperatures hover above 40°, but much of the Monadnock Region will be too chilly for our cold-blooded friends.

If the ground is wet after dark and it’s above 40° in your neck of the woods, it could be a good night to don your reflective vest, grab your flashlight, and head out to see if amphibians are afoot! If it’s your first time on the salamander beat this season, please review these important reminders for Big Nights — and don’t forget to submit your counts and photos via the online forms on our Volunteer Materials page.

If you’re looking for company on the road in the Monadnock Region, you will find Site Coordinators at Whiting Hill Road (Wilton) and Forest Lake Road (Winchester).

Safety note: North Lincoln Street and Jordan Road will not be closed to traffic tonight, so trained Crossing Brigadiers in proper safety attire only at those sites, please.

April 4, 2025

Even though yesterday’s rain ended early in the day, high humidity and balmy evening temperatures spurred amphibians to action in at least a few places. Big thanks to the Crossing Brigadiers who went to check things out, even without the usual nudge from us! The warm temperatures continue tonight, so even if amphibians aren’t crossing, the wood frog choir will likely be performing at your nearest vernal pool or beaver pond.

Looking ahead, Saturday looks rainy, but likely too cold in the evening hours for much movement, and Sunday’s rain is now expected to end by mid-morning. After that, we may be entering a cold spell. That said, it’s spring in New England, so things could well change. Stay tuned!

April 3, 2025

Continued migration is possible tonight, Saturday, and/or Sunday, but it’s not a sure thing, and it will likely vary site by site. As always, temperature and timing are key. Right now, Sunday looks the most promising, but that could certainly change. As for tonight: although the bulk of today’s rain is expected to end by noon, there’s a slight chance of showers right around sunset. With temperatures in the mid-50s at nightfall, those showers could inspire a short burst of amphibian activity if they come through — but that’s a pretty big “if.”

If the ground is wet after dark in your neck of the woods, it could be a good night to don your reflective vest, grab your flashlight, and head out to see if amphibians are afoot! If it’s your first time on the salamander beat this season, please review these important reminders for Big Nights — and don’t forget to submit your counts and photos via the online forms on our Volunteer Materials page.

Safety note: North Lincoln Street and Jordan Road will not be closed to traffic tonight, so trained Crossing Brigadiers in proper safety attire only, please.

April 1, 2025

Rain eventually arrived last night, but not until 11:30 p.m. Damp ground and warm temperatures inspired some earlier evening migration — we’ll share more details on our Field Reports page once the counts have all been tallied — but the biggest part of the migration likely occurred after midnight.

Looking forward, wet weather seems likely Wednesday into Thursday and Saturday into Sunday, but as always, temperature and timing will be key. Right now, Sunday seems the most promising of the four nights, but lots could change between now and then. Stay tuned!

March 31, 2025

Update at 4:45 p.m.: It now looks like tonight’s rain may not arrive until 9 p.m. It’s possible that the combination of warm temperatures and damp ground will still spur some amphibian movement in the early part of the evening, but the “big” part of Big Night may not happen until later.

If it’s raining after dark where you are, don your reflective vest, grab your flashlight, and head out to see if amphibians are afoot! If it’s your first time on the salamander beat this season, remember to review these important reminders for Big Nights — and don’t forget to submit your counts and photos via the online forms on our Volunteer Materials page.

If you’re looking for company on the road in the Monadnock Region, you will find Site Coordinators at North Lincoln Street (Keene), Jordan Road (Keene), River Road (Henniker), Nelson Road (Nelson), Summer Street (Peterborough), Swanzey Lake Road (Swanzey), Glebe Road (Westmoreland)(early evening only), Whiting Hill Road (Wilton), and Forest Lake Road (Winchester). There will not be Site Coordinators at Granite Lake Road (Nelson), Matthews Road (Swanzey), or River Road (Westmoreland).

The North Lincoln Street crossing site in Keene will be closed to vehicles tonight, and Jordan Road in Keene will be closed to through-traffic as well. Although visitors are welcome at the North Lincoln Street crossing site, we ask that only trained Salamander Crossing Brigade volunteers in proper safety attire come to the Jordan Road crossing. You can find more information on the Keene amphibian detours here.

March 30, 2025

This weekend has been far too icy for amphibians (and most other critters!), but a warmup is expected tomorrow. We’re keeping very close watch on tomorrow’s forecast, which is currently calling for temperatures in the mid-50s and an 80% chance of rain starting around sunset. If that forecast holds true, Monday could be a Big Night. Stay tuned…

March 27, 2025

This weekend will usher in a period of wet weather, but will it be warm wet weather? The forecast has been highly changeable, swinging between predictions of frog-friendly and predictions of frog-unfriendly temperatures. Right now, it looks to be too cold on both Saturday and Sunday, and very promising on Monday — but it’s too soon to say for sure. Stay tuned!

March 26, 2025

The coming weekend will usher in a period of wet weather, but will it be warm wet weather? Right now, temperatures look like they’ll be right on the cusp of frog-friendliness on Saturday, too cold on Sunday, and very promising on Monday — but it’s too soon to say for sure. Stay tuned!

March 25, 2025

Our next chance for nighttime rain will be this weekend, but temperatures are not looking promising. The current forecast calls for the temperature to drop into the 30s around sunset on Saturday night and to stay there through the evening rain predicted for both Saturday and Sunday. If that forecast holds, both nights will likely be too cold for amphibians — but a warmup of just 5 degrees could make a big difference. Stay tuned…

March 23, 2025

A brief band of intense rain moved through just after sunset last night, sparking a short-lived burst of frog activity before temperatures dipped and the ground dried. We’ll post a field report from that Small Night here once we have the numbers tallied.

Looking ahead, we now seem to be entering a period of cold and/or dry weather. As yesterday’s surprise storm showed us, things could well change, but at the moment, the next chance for warm evening rain may not be until next weekend. You can use this lull to put fresh batteries in your flashlight, find your reflective vest, and scope out your crossing site, so that you’re ready to go when frog-friendly conditions return!

March 22, 2025

Surprise! The slight chance of showers predicted earlier today has now turned into an 80-90% chance of rain between 7 and 9 p.m. If that rain lingers long enough to soak the ground, we could see a short burst of amphibian activity between last light and when the ground dries — but it’s not a sure thing.

If the ground is wet after dark where you are, don your reflective vest, grab your flashlight, and check out your nearest crossing site! Before you go, be sure to review these important reminders for Big Nights. As a reminder, we’d love to hear what you find out there — even if it’s nothing. You can submit your counts and photos via the online forms on our Volunteer Materials page.

Note: North Lincoln Street and Jordan Road will not be closed to traffic tonight, so trained Crossing Brigadiers in proper safety attire only, please. In addition, this rain appeared in the forecast with so little notice that many of our sites may not have Site Coordinators on hand to put out signs and traffic cones. If you go out, take extra care for your own safety!

March 20, 2025

45-degree rain is on the radar, but not until after midnight — good news for the amphibians, who will have fewer cars to contend with, but less exciting for us Brigadiers, who will likely be asleep by then.

If you’re still awake when tonight’s rain arrives and you’re up for the adventure, don your reflective vest, grab your flashlight, and head to your nearest crossing to see if amphibians are afoot. Then, tell us what you find out there — even if it’s nothing — via the “Submit Counts” form on our Volunteer Materials page. If this is your first migration night of the season, be sure to review these important reminders for Big Nights before you go.

Note: North Lincoln Street and Jordan Road will not be closed to traffic tonight, so trained Crossing Brigadiers in proper safety attire only, please.

March 18, 2025

We’re keeping an eye on the nighttime rain predicted for Thursday. Current forecasts call for that rain to arrive after midnight — a boon for the salamanders and frogs, who would have fewer cars to contend with, but less exciting for us Brigadiers, who may be asleep by then. That said, it’s spring in New England, so things could well change. Stay tuned!

March 17, 2025

Last night was a bona fide Big Night at North Lincoln Street in Keene, with hundreds of wood frogs and spring peepers crossing in 60-degree temperatures and a light mist early in the night — and likely many hundreds more in the heavy rains that moved through after midnight! A handful of other sites — still thawing out — saw much more modest movement. We’ll post a field report here once we have the numbers tallied.

Today’s rain is predicted to end before nightfall. If the ground stays wet after dark, some amphibians could make their move even without precipitation — but any migration is likely to be short-lived, as the ground dries and temperatures dip below 40 (which is predicted to happen around 9 p.m.) After tonight, Thursday’s our next good chance.

If the ground is wet after dark where you are and you’re curious to see whether amphibians are afoot, don your reflective vest, grab your flashlight, and check out your nearest crossing site! Before you go, be sure to review these important reminders for Big Nights. As a reminder, we’d love to hear what you find out there — even if it’s nothing. You can submit your counts and photos via the online forms on our Volunteer Materials page.

If you’re looking for company on the road in the Monadnock Region, you will find Site Coordinators for an hour or so after sunset (or until amphibian activity slows) at North Lincoln Street (Keene), Jordan Road (Keene), and Summer Street (Peterborough). We will not have Site Coordinators at Glebe Road (Westmoreland), Granite Lake Road (Nelson), Matthews Road (Swanzey), or River Road (Westmoreland).

Important note: North Lincoln Street and Jordan Road will not be closed to traffic tonight, so trained Crossing Brigadiers in proper safety attire only, please.

March 16, 2025

Warm rain is on the horizon for tonight, but the timing is uncertain. Some forecasts show wet weather arriving around 8 p.m., others not until 10 p.m. or later. This early in the season, ground conditions are also an important factor, as the earth needs to be thawed to a depth of 3-4″ for at least a day or two for overwintering frogs to get the message that spring has arrived. Most crossing sites in the Monadnock Region are likely still too frozen for a significant migration, but low-elevation sites like North Lincoln Street and Eastern Avenue in Keene could be an exception.

If the ground has thawed where you are and it’s raining after dark, don your reflective vest, grab your flashlight, and head on out to see if amphibians are afoot tonight! Before you go, be sure to review these important reminders for Big Nights. We’d love to hear what you find out there — even if it’s nothing. You can submit your counts and photos via the online forms on our Volunteer Materials page.

If you’re looking for company on the road in the Monadnock Region, you will find Site Coordinators at North Lincoln Street (Keene), at least as long as there is rain and/or amphibian activity. We will not have Site Coordinators at River Road (Henniker), Jordan Road (Keene), or Nelson Road (Nelson) where the ground is still too frozen for amphibians, or at Granite Lake Road (Nelson), Matthews Road (Swanzey) or River Road (Westmoreland), where we don’t have Site Coordinators yet this year. We will update this list as we hear from more Site Coordinators.

The North Lincoln Street crossing site in Keene will be closed to vehicles tonight, but Jordan Road will be open to traffic, as the ground is still frozen at that higher-elevation site. You can find more information on the Keene amphibian detours here.

March 12, 2025

Much of the Monadnock Region is still blanketed by snow, but this week’s warmer temperatures are melting what’s left of the snowpack at some low-elevation sites, such as North Lincoln Street in Keene. The big question is whether the ground at those sites will have thawed enough to spur amphibians to action if it rains as predicted on Sunday. (Although wood frogs can thaw in as few as four hours, it takes about a day for them to fully rouse.) If the ground at those sites has thawed sufficiently — a big “if” — it’s possible we could see our first amphibian movement of the year in Keene and other low-elevation sites over the weekend — but it’s too soon to tell. Stay tuned…

February 18, 2025

Salamander season is right around the corner! Dig out your reflective vest, put fresh batteries in your headlamp, register for this year’s Salamander Crossing Brigade workshop on March 13 if you’d like a refresher or are new to the Brigades, sign up to volunteer this spring if you’re a veteran Brigadier — and check back in mid-March for the start of our 2025 salamander forecasts.