Each spring, as snowmelt and seasonal rains gather in shallow forest depressions, a hidden world awakens. Vernal pools, temporary wetlands that appear and vanish with the seasons, become vibrant nurseries for some of Maryland’s most fascinating amphibians and reptiles. This talk explores the ecology, biodiversity, complex food webs, and conservation importance of vernal pools in Maryland. Though they may look like simple woodland puddles, these fish-free waters are critical breeding and feeding habitats for species that depend on their brief existence. For those of you who may have gone on a vernal pool trip or will be soon, this will be a great opportunity to learn more about these unique environments.
We’ll take a closer look at native amphibians such as:
- Spotted salamander
- Four-toed salamanders
- Marbled salamander
- Newts
- Frogs
This in-person presentation will feature striking images taken by Mark Tegges at vernal pools local to the central Maryland region.
Mark Tegges was born and raised in Baltimore City. Since childhood, he has been interested in reptiles and amphibians. While growing up in Baltimore, he attended Polytech High School, where he became an active member of the herpetology club, building camaraderie through sharing his appreciation of reptiles with his classmates. While attending Towson State University, he continued to study herps. Mark has been photographing reptiles and amphibians since he was 14, and this passion has taken him all over the world to document these remarkable creatures.
This presentation will be in person at the Natural History Society of Maryland building at the following address:
Are you fascinated by reptiles and amphibians? The Natural History Society of Maryland’s Herp Club promotes the proper husbandry, conservation, study, and appreciation of reptiles and amphibians. Amateurs, professionals, and kids of all ages are welcome. Meetings are held on the second Wednesday of every month and are open to the public.
Although you don’t need to be a member to attend a meeting, membership gives you access to additional experiences. An annual NHSM membership is $35 for individuals, $50 for families; Herp Club membership is an additional $5 for individuals and $10 for families.
If you are not yet a member of NHSM, click here to join. When you join as a new member, you can add the club membership(s) of your choice to your registration. Current NHSM members who wish to join any clubs should email the Community Coordinator at rbaldwin@marylandnature.org.
Registration
Levels:- NHSM Herp Club Member: $0
- NHSM Member: $0
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Education for All: $0
Suggested Donation $5