The recent rain we’ve seen is certainly a benefit to farmers and those with gardens.

It is always a thrill when we see wildlife appreciating it as well. The damp ground and vegetation that follow a rain allows amphibians like this Northern red salamander to comfortably move about and hunt for food items such as insects and worms. They can normally be found in clear streams or in woodlands hiding under leaf litter or logs.During a recent monitoring walk, we came across this beauty, on the edge of a woodland that had several streams running through it.

The Northern red salamander doesn’t leave the water until it reaches maturity at 2-3 years, and can live up to 20 years. It is one of about 17 species of salamanders found locally.

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