Spring creatures in Michigan

[mark]

Since it finally warmed up in Michigan, I went out exploring this weekend and found that a few creatures have started stirring about, and some are at their breeding ponds.
I was especially happy to get pictures of the chorus frog, because although I always hear them, it is rare for me to actually spot one.

Spotted Salamander - Ambystoma maculatum

Another shot of that salamander

Another A maculatum. This one has a lot of yellow on its head.

Redback Salamander - Plethodon cinereus

Redback Salamander ("leadback phase)

Western Chorus Frog - Pseudacris triseriata

Another shot of the chorus frog

Wood Frog - Rana sylvatica

Another wood frog

...and a garter snake - Thamnophis sirtalis

Here's a shot of one of the vernal pools where they were found.
Hope you like the pictures.

 

[andrew]

Hey Mark,

Nice pictures! I really like that heavily spotted maculatum. Where are you in MI? Must be in the southern part of the state because I haven't seen/heard any amphibians yet up in Gaylord. It did reach 70* F today, though! Thank god that long winter is over.

Andrew Myers

 

[nicholas]

Nice pictures, Mark. I've been finding some of the same animals, but no salamanders. If you live nearby, I'd really like to head out in the woods with you.

 

[mark]

Thanks.

I live in Utica (metro Detroit area, near Sterling Heights, Auburn Hills, etc.)

Nicholas, I'd be up for heading out sometime. I just went again today after work (I'll do a new post), and might not go out any time until next week. I can send you an email with some pointers if you want - there are areas nearby where you can see some salamanders.

 

[nicholas]

I'm familiar with Utica, I go to school at Macomb Community College. I live in Algonac, which is sorta between New Baltimore and Marine City. We live kinda close to each other. Let me know what your plans are next week, I'll probably be available to head out in the woods with you.

In the meantime, locations would be great. I'll be checking my e-mail here and there, if you decide to send some info. I've got aim too: xamphibiax, but I don't stay logged in for long.

 

[Reptileboy2012]

OK i know these pictures where taken a few years ago but you by any chance remember where in UTICA the Salamander pictures where taken i am doing a Biology project and my topic if on Salamander so i just wanted to see them in there natural habitat and get some information of them i live in Sterling Heights, MI so i close to Utica.
Any information would be really great
Thanks

 

[Reptileboy2012]

Hi Mark i live in Sterling heights, Mi and i know these pictures were takin awhile ago but do you by any chance remember where in Utica you found the salamanders i'm going to try Herping this spring and would really love to find some in there natural habitat.

 

[Kaysie]

These are all pretty common species. This forum (and most herpers in general) won't ever give out specific locations. Head to the woods and see what you can find!