There is an incredible phenomenon that happens every spring in Massachusetts. On the first rainy nights when the temperature is around 45°F or higher, certain amphibians such as wood frogs and spotted salamanders emerge en masse from their wintering sites, heading to temporary water bodies called vernal pools to breed. It’s an event often dubbed Big Night. These five images from our Photo Contest provide an up close look.

The animals are often secretive, so catching a glimpse of them can be exciting. Join one of our Big Night programs to search for spotted salamanders, wood frogs, and other denizens of vernal pools.

Spotted salamanders, 2011 Photo Contest Entry © Gail S. Platz

Wood frog, 2014 Photo Contest Entry © Debbie Dineen

Spotted salamander, 2010 Photo Contest Entry © Suzanne Niles

Wood frog camouflage, 2014 Photo Contest Entry © Jane Parker

A mass of wood frog eggs, 2014 Photo Contest Entry © Rachel Roberts

Have a great shot of your own? The 2015 Picture This Photo Contest launches April 1!

Keen observers are now spotting flocks of red-winged blackbirds. It’s a sure sign of spring, since few of these birds remain in Massachusetts during the winter. Male red-winged blackbirds are bold singers, but females are well-camouflaged so that they don’t draw predators to their nests. Our Photo Contest photographers have captured their many moods. Learn more about red-winged blackbirds.

Male Red-winged Blackbird, 2014 Photo Contest Entry © David Peller

Fledgling Red-winged Blackbird, 2012 Photo Contest Entry © Deborah Monte

Female Red-winged Blackbird, 2012 Photo Contest Entry © Mark Rosenstein

Male Red-winged Blackbird, 2014 Photo Contest Entry © Fred Harwood

Male Red-winged Blackbird, 2012 Photo Contest Entry © Ron Levenson