Our next match today pits a well-loved reptile found on rare lands against a cold-loving amphibian that populates our wetlands.
Last year’s Final Four participant, the Common Snapping Turtle (Chelydra serpentia), is one of two turtle species that are commonly found in and around Waterloo Region. Staff and volunteers at rare gear up starting in May to launch the Turtle Hotline, and go out and protect (or collect) nests of turtle eggs laid near roads or in other areas where they may be vulnerable. Since the program started, over 7,000 eggs have been collected, incubated, and hatchlings released! So, as spring begins, watch out for turtles on the roads, or nests near where humans could trouble them, and help protect this species from urban development by ensuring they have natural areas, like rare, where they can grow.
Speaking of natural areas, the Wood Frog (Lithobates sylvaticus) depends on our wetlands. These creatures range across Canada, into the northern boreal forests, and are specially adapted to deal with sub-freezing temperatures, using urea and glucose in their tissues to protect their cells should they freeze solid. While the wood frog is not endangered, urban development that drains wetlands presents a loss of habitat that could threaten these creatures. For more information on the Wood Frog, check out its entry at the National Wildlife Federation’s website.
So, will the Common Snapping Turtle go all the way this year? Or will it be upset by the humble Wood Frog? Your votes determine who goes on to Round Two, so cast your ballot below!