Michigan’s Salamander Migration Begins Soon: What To Know

One of my favorite little-only-in-Michigan stories is about a little amphibian in a very remote part of the state that, once a year, is the source of a road closure so they can "get it on," as the great T. Rex famously sang back in '71. Soon, these salamanders (did you know Michigan had salamanders? I certainly did not) will be making their harrowing journey across the street for mating season.

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If this is your first time hearing about this, allow me to introduce you to the Blue-spotted salamander, one of Michigan's most unique native species.

Michigan's Salamander Migration Season

Starting in early spring, Michigan's 10 salamander species begin their migrations from their underground homes into vernal pools for mating and breeding. Their homes aren't far from these vernal birthplaces, and their intrepid treks have sparked both intrigue and annoyance among the public. This migration season typically runs from early March to the beginning of April.

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Watching these salamander migrations has become a popular event for enthusiasts, who observe the salamanders as they make overnight journeys to the pools. Ann Arbor and Marquette are two of the most well-known spots for these migrations.

Marquette's Blue-spotted Salamander Problem

The Blue-spotted salamander is one of 10 salamander species native to Michigan. Its blue spots, which cover its entire body, make it very distinctive. However, there's one area in the Upper Peninsula where the salamander's annual migration takes them across one of the UP's busiest roads.

Peter White Drive, the road leading into Presque Isle Park in Marquette, has closed from 8 pm to 8 am daily from May 15th to whenever the migration ends, after a 2019 study found that over 400 of these salamanders were killed by cars. As a result, the Michigan DNR approved a 2024 grant to install underground tunnels to provide the salamanders with safe passage under the road.