BRISTOL, Ind. -- Bonneyville Mill County Park will be hosting a nighttime hike on Wednesday, March 16 from 9 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. in search of amphibians.

This free event is open to all participants ages 12 and older, and will take place at the Briar Patch Shelter in the park. The hike will include a brief explanation of the unique amphibians found in the region’s vernal ponds, followed by a 1.5-mile hike in search of them.

“Right now, as temperatures rise and rainfall softens the icy ground, amphibian activity is kicking into high gear, and we’re likely to see species like the spotted salamander, spring peeper, and wood frog emerging from their underground shelters”, said Annie Aguirre, the program’s coordinator.

Participants are required to register by March 15 on the Elkhart County Parks website.

To prepare for muddy terrain, the park staff recommends bringing flashlights, waterproof clothing, and rain boots along for the trip.