Necturus maculosus at Oxford Mills

Last night Nicole, Tracy and I joined a group from Toronto along with the Schuelers; eleven of us in total. It was a slightly overcast night and about -11C. The water was still high from the recent thaw about a week ago. The night before, Fred noted that there were no mudpuppies to be found. It is still early in the season and with the high waters, it was not surprising that the count was zero.

Talking to Aleta Karstad, she was mentioning that there was still numerous unanswered questions about these fascinating animals. When most of Canadian reptiles and amphibians are hibernating through our bitterly cold winters, these creatures are not only active but they also find it the prime time for breeding. Little is known about the breeding habits of these animals and it is unknown if anyone has yet to observe mating and breeding rituals of Necturus maculosus.

Afterwards we stopped in at the Brigadoon, an exquisit restaurant that has been highly recommended by many for its dining. Though most of us were simply looking for a cup of hot chocolate to warm ourselves from the evening chill, the aromas from the kitchen tempted your tastebuds. Though they are a upper class restaurant, they were accommodating to us herpetoculturists dressed in less than appropriate attire for the Brigadoon.