Night closures on Stouffville Road to protect Jefferson Salamanders

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from Friday, October 6, 2023, to Sunday, October 29, 2023, during the hours of 9 p.m. to 5 a.m

During this time of year, Jefferson Salamanders, an endangered species, cross Stouffville Road after leaving their summer habitat to travel to their favourite places to overwinter. 

Drivers can expect intermittent closures of Stouffville Road, between Bayview Avenue and Leslie Street, from Friday, October 6, 2023, to Sunday, October 29, 2023, during the hours of 9 p.m. to 5 a.m.  Signs will be posted to guide motorists and local access will be maintained.

The closures will only occur during rain events when most salamanders complete their migration.

The road closure also happens in the spring.

This section of Stouffville Road is located in the Oak Ridges Moraine Natural Core Area.

The Jefferson Salamanders natural habitat of undisturbed natural forests, rocky outcrops, wetlands, and ponds.

Salamanders are a good indicator of healthy forests and ecosystems in this community.

Read more about these little guys here Jefferson salamander - Wikipedia

York Region is considering constructing a wildlife passage. For more information: Jefferson Salamander | York Region

And listen to this podcast done in the spring of 2023 to find out more. Gerard Sullivan talks about the Jefferson Salamander crossing the road | Connecting the Community (podbean.com)