Salamander season begins in Burlington – watch for migrating amphibians

Springtime is when the amphibians make an appearance.

The endangered Jefferson salamander is expected to begin its breeding migration soon on King Road near the base of the Niagara Escarpment to Mountain Brow Road.

Since 2012, the City has closed a section of road for the salamanders to safely cross however road is already closed for construction of a nearby subdivision.

Mayor Marianne Meed Ward called the salamanders a beloved part of the community.

We're glad to play a small role in protecting the salamanders while raising awareness about their endangered status - Jeff' also is earning an unofficial mascot status for our city. Closing off this section of King Road each year is proving to be an effective tool in supporting the survival and recovery of this rare species," said Meed Ward.

Adult salamanders migrate to their breeding ponds during wet rainy nights. They show a strong affinity for the pond in which they hatched and can be very determined to reach it, sometimes causing them to cross busy roads.

In Canada, the Jefferson salamander is found in Southern Ontario in select areas of deciduous forest, mostly along the Niagara Escarpment.

The Jefferson salamander is protected at both the provincial and national levels. It was added to Ontario's endangered species list in 2011.