Spring is in the air and the frogs and toads are on the move. Hopefully, the cold weather of late will not keep frogs like the spring peeper from calling at the Shaw Wetland.

Spring peepers, American Toads and possibly the northern leopard frog will be courting. They are a few of the early frogs and toads that breed early. Eight of the 13 native frogs and toads of Ohio can be found in Fayette County. Providing good habitat is important to the survival of amphibians.

The Shaw Wetland and many of the woods that have wetland ground, ponds and small brooks are perfect habitat for their life cycle. Think about creating a water feature this year on your property. Surprisingly, even small garden ponds attract frogs and toads.

The Fayette Soil & Water Conservation District, Altrusa of Fayette County and Carnegie Library will host an evening hike at the Shaw Wetlands on Robinson Road this Friday, 6-7:30 p.m., to search for amazing amphibians. You can also read “A Place For Frogs” as part of our “Season of Reading” on the book trail. We’ll view frogs and fairy shrimp up close in their wetland habitat. An adventure for the whole family. Please dress for the weather.

For more information, contact Brigitte Hisey at 740-313-3212, email [email protected] or visit us on Facebook.