Spring Equinox Walk - Blair Brothers Railroad Trail - Woodcocks and Vernal Amphibians

Date: Friday, March 20, 5:30 pm

Leader: Alex Busato, busatoalex67@gmail.com, 724-963-6612   

Directions: From Donegal Turnpike exit, head east on Rt. 31 / 711S past the intersection with Jones Mills Stahlstown Rd. Turn left onto Rt. 381 and follow for approximately 1.25 mi. Turn left onto Hunter’s Lane, a small dirt road that can be easily missed but is the only left turn on this stretch (if you hit the 381 bridge over Indian Creek, you’ve gone too far). Follow the road to a small dirt parking lot near the trailhead.

Description: This outing will hopefully catch two evening spectacles of spring in one location! This flat section of trail is situated in the floodplain of Indian Creek and is flanked by areas of wetland and shrubby fields. We will begin with an out-and-back walk as the sun sets to see some resident species before returning to the parking lot area as dusk falls to watch and listen for displaying woodcocks. In addition, this property contains several vernal pools that are known to support breeding Wood Frogs, Spring Peepers, and Spotted Salamanders. While many factors can affect the timing of amphibian breeding, this time of year holds a good chance for activity. Dress warmly and bring flashlights / headlamps if you have them, preference for any that have a red light setting as this is less disturbing to the nocturnal animals. Waterproof footwear is recommended but not required. In the event of some rain, this event will still run for those interested (rain encourages amphibian movements and is when Spotted Salamanders are most likely to be active). Thunderstorms and heavy rain however will result in a cancellation.