What Surprising New York Animal Hatches from These ‘Snot Balls’?

Nature is wonderful... and weird. Recently, researchers from the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC) showed Hudson Valley, NY residents exactly how weird.

There are plenty of fascinating plants and animals living in our state. From New York's four carnivorous plants to the spiky rodent that likes to build tree nests and eat cars (really), there's a surprise around every corner. But back to those snot balls...

NYSDEC Researchers Explore Vernal Pools in the Hudson Valley

The NYSDEC recently went live on Facebook to show New Yorkers some of the amazing things found in the Hudson Valley's vernal pools. Unlike Hudson River estuaries, which can host tens of thousands of migrating eels and hold water year-round, vernal pools are unique in their seasonality.

About New York State's Vernal Pools

Vernal means "spring", and that's exactly when these pools are at their height. Thanks to snowmelt and other water runoff, these mini habitats found in New York forests often last only as long as the season. Before the water disappears, however, the pools are home to some interesting creatures.

Eggs Found in New York's Vernal Pools

Vernal pools are the perfect place for many different species of amphibians to lay their eggs. First, NYSDEC researches shared a large mass of wood frog eggs (above). Their lack of "protective jelly" helps distinguish them from another type, which were gleefully described as a "big snot ball" (below).

What Animal Hatches from These "Snot Ball" Eggs?

The "snot ball" egg mass belongs to none other than one of New York's favorite amphibians: the salamander, with the out layer of "snot" acting as a protective barrier between the eggs and potential predators like newts (below). Both tree frog and salamander eggs need to be submerged in water, which is why these vernal pools are such an important part of New York's ecosystem.

Hudson Valley, NY Wildlife

Local residents more interested in cute furry mammals than slimy amphibian eggs don't have to look too far. While they may not inhabit vernal pools, local beavers (New York's largest rodent) are like Disney creatures that came to life. Check out the Orange County, NY family frolicking in a nearby pond below.