Kitchener road closed to protect endangered salamander species

Saturday, March 21, 2015, 1:47 PM - Why did the salamander cross the road?

In the city of Kitchener, the reason has prompted officials to ensure that the Jefferson salamander makes it across safely.

For the fourth time in recent years, a section of Stauffer Road is closed to ensure safe passage for the tiny amphibians.

The Jefferson salamander is protected under Ontario's Endangered Species Act, and is found in only 30 locations across Ontario.

Every spring, the salamanders make their way from one side of the road to the other in order to reach small ponds to breed.

However, the greatest threat to their annual journey is road traffic.

Dwindling population and the salamanders' leisurely pace prompted environmental planners to identify their secondary habitat, and recommend that measures be taken to ensure the colony can reach it each year.

A portion of Stauffer Road between South Creek Drive and Caryndale Drive will be closed from March 21 to May 1.

The stretch will eventually be turned into a conservation trail in order to preserve the natural wildlife in the area.

Source: CBC

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