Animals of Ohio's Ponds and Vernal Pools

by Fitzsimmons, David; Maszaros, Gary

• ISBN13: 9781606350812
• ISBN10: 1606350811
• Format: Hardcover
• Copyright: 2011-09-01
• Publisher: Kent State Univ Pr

Summary

The Buckeye State's many ponds and vernal pools are populated by a dizzying variety of wildlife. Animals of Ohio's Ponds and Vernal Pools takes a close-up look at unique wetlands-from fascinating fish and amphibians to intriguing insects and birds-and examines pond and vernal pool ecology, Ohio's geologic history influencing wetland formation, and hydrology and energy cycles. In prose that enlightens and entertains, author David S. FitzSimmons uncovers both the rare and common life-forms found in and around Ohio's ponds and vernal pools. First he discusses the Buckeye State's variety of small lakes, covering everything from managed farm ponds to glacially formed basins. He then turns to vernal pools, temporary waters that fill in the late winter or spring and dry up in the summer. He describes specialized amphibian breeding habitats including a vivid account of rainy spring nights when hundreds of mole salamanders slip into the filling waters while equal numbers of wood frogs "clack" loudly in the dark. Accompanying these scientifically accurate and poetic descriptions are Gary Meszaros's extraordinary photographs, including closeups of multicolored dragonflies, underwater shots of fish, beautiful images of birds, and idyllic vistas of Ohio's serene ponds and secluded pools. Animals of Ohio's Ponds and Vernal Pools is a wonderful resource about wetlands and wildlife that will inspire readers to learn about and protect their own natural environments.