A Young bull frog in the middle of a ''Vernal Pool". I have seen many of these in my day but was unaware that it had a proper name ..it is described as a springtime woodland puddle, free from predatory fish and it provides a safe breeding ground where frogs , toads and salamanders can lay eggs and their larvae (tadpoles)can develop into adult amphibians that control biting insects ....if you see these while your hiking try and avoid them and steer your dogs clear of them as these habitats are extremely sensitive ! You can actually help the environment by creating such areas in underutilized open areas ! https://content.yardmap.org/learn/creating-vernal-pools/ for more info

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