Twilight Pond Walk

Lacy Powers, BCCD, Conservation Technician
The cold chill of the winter months is finally working its way behind us as summer rounds the corner in Bradford County.  This is a special time of year as everyone, as animals to plants, start to shake off the winter frost and embrace the birth of the new season. We begin to notice the tips of trees start to turn green and little seedlings make the mighty break through topsoil to bask in the sun. This burst of excitement can be observed around the pond too, as the ice melts and the pond’s inhabitants are finding new life in the warmer days.  One such amphibian that is awakened this time of the season is the Spring Peeper.

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The Spring Peeper is the most common native tree frog in Pennsylvania.  It is a small frog that only grows to be around three-fourths to 1 ¼ inch long. They live in dense wooded areas near permanent water sources such as ponds, lakes, and rivers. As you have probably assumed from its name, the Spring Peeper hibernates in water during the winter and reemerges in March, becoming the unofficial mascot for spring. At the beginning of spring, the peepers call to each other in a chorus day and night until later in the season then they call only at night. This gives you the perfect, peaceful nature sound you know and love as you can finally start to wind down your day near the pond again and take in its beauty at twilight.

The Spring Peeper is a staple to any healthy pond in Bradford County as they will not live near polluted waters and is also a sign of a good pond ecology. Understanding pond ecology and what you can do to promote the natural habitat of different kinds of wildlife species can greatly increase the value and enjoyment of your pond or lake. By introducing things such as a vegetative buffer and woody habitat structures you allow for more aquatic species to find home in your pond. There are also many things you can do to the area surrounding your pond to help promote a diverse wildlife habitat while also maintaining proactive pond management.

If you have found yourself interested in knowing more about wildlife diversity through natural pond management the Bradford County Conservation District is hosting a Twilight Pond Walk on June 1, 2024.  This relaxing evening, on the property Bob and Mary Frey in Rome Township, will begin at 4:00 PM with Mr. Frey giving an enthusiastic tour of his four ponds where he will talk about habitat diversity, natural aquatic landscaping, and the flora and fauna that call his ponds home. Following the pond walk a BBQ meal provided by Antler Ridge Winery will be served consisting of brisket and pulled pork, two sides, applesauce, refreshments, and dessert.  After dinner we will complete the pond tour and, weather permitting, conclude the evening roasting marshmallows over a campfire at sunset while listening to the chorus of American toads, spring peepers, and tree frogs!

This workshop is geared toward landowners looking for ideas to create or enhance habitat within and around their ponds as well as individuals just looking to enjoy a relaxing evening in nature with good food and good company. *Close-toed or hiking shoes are required for this event and bring a lawn chair for marshmallow roasting! The cost of $10 per person for Bradford County Lake/Pond Management Organization members and $25 per person for non-members ($25 covers registration fee and 2024 membership). If you are interested in this event, call the BCCD at 570-485-3144 to reserve one of the 30 available spots. We will be happy to see you there!
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The Bradford County Conservation District is committed to helping people manage resources wisely.  You can visit the Bradford County Conservation District at 200 Lake Rd in Wysox across from the Wysox Fire Hall. Contact us at (570) 485-3144 or visit our web page at www.bccdpa.com.