Amphibians provide several benefits to humans and spring is a great time to observe these fascinating creatures in their early stages of life.
Teens can search for amphibian eggs and larvae at the Missouri Department of Conservation’s (MDC) Compton Hollow Conservation Area on a May 14 guided hike by signing up for the MDC program “Conservation Teens: Amphibian Investigation.” This hike, which is part of MDC’s Springfield Conservation Nature Center’s Conservation Teens activities, will be 1-4 p.m. and is for individuals ages 12-17. Individuals can register for this program at https://mdc-event-web.s3licensing.com/Event/EventDetails/184183.

The ringed salamander is one of several amphibian species teens can learn about during a Missouri Department of Conservation teens-only hike on May 14.
MDC’s 831-acre Compton Hollow Conservation Area in Webster County features several ponds and ephemeral (temporary) water pools that are great places for amphibians to lay their eggs and go through their initial stages of development. MDC Naturalist Morgan Wyatt will lead teens on a short hike to some of Compton’s water areas where program participants can look for amphibian eggs and larvae and learn more about some of the amphibians found in Missouri.
Individuals will gather at the Springfield Nature Center (4601 S. Nature Center Way) at 1 p.m. on May 14. MDC staff will provide transportation for this event. Program participants should bring water bottles and wear clothes and footwear that can get wet and muddy. All supplies, snacks, and drinking water will be provided. Parents and guardians are reminded that the May 14 program, like all other nature center Conservation Teens activities, is for ages 12-17 only and does not include parents or younger siblings.
People can learn more about this program and other upcoming events at the Springfield Nature Center by calling 417-888-4237. Stay informed about upcoming programs at MDC’s Springfield Conservation Nature Center and other MDC facilities by signing up for text alerts and e-mail bulletins. People who have questions about how to sign up for text alerts from the nature center can call the nature center at the number listed above.
Staff at MDC facilities across the state are holding in-person and virtual programs. A listing of these programs can be found at mdc.mo.gov/events.