Richmond National Battlefield Park - Amphibians (U.S. National Park Service)

(NPS photo)

An American toad rests along the damp forest floor at Malvern Hill

Amphibians are an important component of the Richmond National Battlefield Park ecosystem. They serve as both predator and prey in the complex food-webs of their environment. Amphibians are generally much more susceptible to environmental influences than other organisms, therefore amphibian populations are a good indicator of environmental quality.

The many streams, marshes, and other wetlands within the park provide an important refuge for a diverse mix of these ecologically sensitive species. Throughout the summer visitors can enjoy the relaxing calls of spring peepers and chorus frogs echoing across the park. A walk along one of the park's many trails will likely lead to an encounter with the American toad, among several other common species. The park's streams and river banks are home to a variety of amphibian species from the lead-backed salamander to the exotic looking red-spotted newt.

Richmond National Battlefield Park employs careful monitoring and conservation of natural resources to ensure that the park remains an ideal environment for the many native amphibian species.