Amphibians

An amphibian study focuses on frogs, toads and salamanders (amphibians) and where they live. The study will help Alto planners protect amphibians and their habitats while building and operating the new railway.

In spring and summer 2024, Alto planners were looking and listening for the presence of amphibians, including Western Chorus frogs and Pickerel frogs. These frog species have unique songs. Click the play buttons on each video to hear what our Alto planners may hear while conducting amphibian studies.

Pickerel Frog.

Western Chorus Frog.

*The frog call recordings are courtesy of the Macaulay Library of Natural Sounds, Cornell Laboratory of Ornithology, and the FrogWatch program.

Where are amphibian studies taking place?

The 2024 amphibian studies took place along sections of existing railway routes in Ontario, from Twin Elm up to Ottawa and down to Vars, and in Québec near Laval to the 740 highway in Québec City.

Why study amphibians?

Amphibians eat a variety of insects, which is beneficial to agriculture and human health. Amphibians' moist, permeable skin also makes them vulnerable to drought and toxic substances, making them exceptional indicators of ecosystem health. Field studies will help Alto planners better understand and protect amphibians and their habitats when building and operating the new railway, while determining a baseline for future studies.

Download fact sheet (PDF)