The Three Phases of Vernal Pools

The Wet Phase

emily — Sat, 08 Jan 2011 20:17:49 +0000

In winter, vernal pools swarm with aquatic life, most smaller than a freckle. Frogs and toads come to mate and lay eggs. From November through March, species race against the clock (and their predators) to grow up, mate and lay eggs before the pools dry up.

The Flowering Phase

emily — Fri, 08 Jan 2010 20:27:00 +0000

VernalPoolGrasslandFlowers.jpg

As the pools dry down in March, the seedlings grow, springing into bloom during April and early May. Most grow to less than six inches high. Vernal pool flowers create colorful rings, patches and ribbons of yellow, white, pink and purple.

The Dry Phase

emily — Thu, 08 Jan 2009 20:27:39 +0000

POOL-008.jpg

During the hot, dry summer months, vernal pools lie brown and barren among the grasslands. Birds, mammals and insects come to the pools to feed on the seeds and bulbs of vernal pool plants. While they are there, other species feed on them.