Vernal Pools Information

Question:  Can you think of any other reasons vernal pools are important?
Vernal pools are seasonal depressional wetlands. They are important because they provide water and shelter for many different species of frogs and toads.
Reptiles – They do not have fur or feathers and they do not maintain a constant body temperature.
Ecosystem – a system that forms through the interaction of organisms and their environments.
Frogs that breed in vernal pools
https://www.naturalheritage.state.pa.us/VernalPool_Amphibians.aspx
Salamanders that breed in vernal pools
https://dwr.virginia.gov/blog/seen-a-salamander-vernal-pools-are-unique-habitats/
Insects that breed in vernal pools
https://www.nationalgeographic.com/premium/article/vernal-pools-forest-life
Crustaceans that breed in vernal pools
https://dwr.virginia.gov/blog/vernal-pools-springs-night-life/
Other Resources:
National Geographic:
https://www.nationalgeographic.com/animals/article/magic-spring-vernal-pools-equinox
Pennsylvania Natural Heritage Program:  https://www.naturalheritage.state.pa.us/VernalPools.aspx
Virgina Department of Wildlife Resources
https://dwr.virginia.gov/blog/vernal-pools-for-salamanders/
Vernal Pool Cooperative of Virginia
http://www.virginiamasternaturalist.org/vernal-pools-cooperative.html
​
​An online guide to the ​natural resources of Windsor Castle Park
Virginia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and local governments. Its programs and employment are open to all, regardless of age, color, disability, gender, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, military status, or any other basis protected by law. If you are a person with a disability and desire assistance or accommodation, please notify the Isle of Wight Extension Office at (757) 365-62619/TDD*) during business hours of 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. *TDD number is (800) 828-1120.