Want to help facilitate one of the biggest migrations in the world? Join this citizen science project in counting and recording amphibians as they migrate from their winter habitats to their spring breeding grounds.

A “big night” is a remarkable and critical event in the life cycle of amphibians. It refers to the evening when certain amphibian species, driven by environmental cues like temperature and rainfall, embark on a mass migration from their winter habitats to breeding grounds. This spectacle often involves large numbers of amphibians, making it a captivating and significant occurrence in nature.

When a “big night” occurs, volunteers report to their selected monitoring site and record data on amphibian migrations and help them cross roads when they can. This data informs research projects, and helps us understand how humans are impacting amphibian migration.

How Does a “Big Night” Work

While the term “big night” implies only one night when this event may occur, it frequently occurs multiple times per year. In Maine, big nights tend to occur in early to mid April for most of the state. The triggers are mostly thawed ground, nighttime temperatures above forty degrees (the warmer, the better!), and enough precipitation to make the ground wet.

How to Participate

Register for the event: We will email all Big Night registrants when a “big night” is going to occur. We typically know within a day or two of a “big night” date. Register for this event above, and make sure to sign the waiver below.

Follow email instructions: When a “big night” is expected, volunteers will receive an email with details on when and where 7 Lakes Alliance staff will be stationed at the monitoring site.

What to bring: 7 Lakes Alliance staff will bring monitoring kits. Kits include reflective vests, headlamps, amphibian ID cards, data entry forms, and reflective signs for the road to alert oncoming traffic. Participants should dress according to the weather, and bring a headlamp/flashlight if they have one. All other gear will be provided.

Go the Extra Mile

7 Lakes Alliance staff members have completed the Volunteer Certification and will act as the site hosts. If you would like to take the extra step and get certified yourself, you can do so here.

Event Policies

• All volunteers must sign the waiver linked above to participate in this activity
• Children under the age of 18 must have a parent or guardian sign the waiver
• Children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult
• Pets will not be allowed at this event