Last Friday night was a memorable one for salamander lovers, young and old in Homewood.

The evening conditions were perfect for the winter salamander migration — rainy and a warm 50-60 degrees.

When this happens the local salamanders trek down off Shades Mountain at night, emerging from the Homewood Forest Preserve. They then cross South Lakeshore Drive and dive into the venal pools adjacent to the Samford University intramural fields.

On this particular evening, because it had been wet late in the afternoon and after dark, the salamanders were greeted by dozens of Homewood families, the Mayor, a couple Council members, the city manager, members of Friends of Shades Creek and scientists from UAB and Samford.

“It was a blast. We had a great time. And those kids were just the best spotters, because they’re closer to the ground.”
Jennifer Andress, Homewood Mayor

Below are videos from the evening:

The special relationship between the city and the salamanders is unique, Andress told Bham Now. Thanks to Friends of Shades Creek and the community, when conditions are ripe, South Lakeshore Drive is closed by the city to protect the salamanders. For example, traffic was diverted during the basketball games between Homewood and Parker High School on Friday.

Next Up – Salamander Festival on Jan. 31

The salamanders will continue to migrate throughout January and February on those rainy and warm evenings.

If you can’t make it out to see them, attend the The Friends of Shades Creek annual Salamander Festival on January 31, 1:00PM to 4:00PM, at the Homewood High School gym. This family-friendly event promotes nature conservation, featuring live salamanders, arts and crafts, a balloon artist, live music and more.

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