As the warm, wet embrace of spring arrives, a unique and heartwarming tradition comes alive in our community. For nature lovers and animal advocates alike, “Big Night” offers a chance to make a life-saving difference for our amphibious friends.

Happening on rainy nights above 40ºF in March and early April, “Big Night” is the mass migration of frogs, newts, and salamanders. These creatures emerge from their winter hiding spots and begin a dangerous journey across busy roads to reach breeding pools.

Sadly, many amphibians don’t make it across without help. Thankfully, dedicated volunteers gather on specific evenings with flashlights in hand to help these little travelers navigate their perilous journeys. Armed with headlamps, high-vis layers and rainboots, locals of all ages head out into the drizzle to help the frogs cross safely. They act as crossing guards, getting cars to stop, and warning people about the poor little creatures on the roads. They collect data on how many of each species they see each night, and send it to the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC). Even when there aren’t volunteers out, there are signs on the roads warning cars to drive carefully and keep a lookout.

As spring progresses and the rain subsides, activity on the roads naturally winds down. The frogs made it to their breeding pools, and “Big Night” is over for the season. The annual event serves as a bridge between the community and local wildlife, and because of the coordinated effort of all the volunteers, thousands of amphibians were able to survive the journey, ensuring these species stay a part of our local environment.