Tiny tunnels are a large step towards protecting endangered salamanders
During spring and fall, tiny Jefferson Salamanders cross Stouffville Road between Bayview Avenue and Leslie Street in the City of Richmond Hill, migrating to and from breeding grounds. Over the years, York Region closed the road to allow the endangered salamanders to cross safely.
Recognizing the environmental significance of the area and the species, York Region is building two salamander tunnels under Stouffville Road in July 2025.
Gerard Sullivan, an Environmental Specialist with York Region Public Works explains the importance of the tunnels in this video.
The tunnels are a permanent solution that will play a role in species recovery and prevent the need to close this road section during annual migration. They are the first of this kind in York Region.
Jefferson Salamanders choose this area of the Oak Ridges Moraine for undisturbed forests, rocky outcrops, diverse wetlands, ponds and pools. It is one of a few rare locations for Jefferson Salamanders in Ontario.
Through York Region’s road closure initiative and public awareness efforts, the salamander population has been protected from extinction in the area. Scientists with Toronto Region Conservation Authority also gathered important research, including tracking salamander range and movement patterns and conducting genetic analysis.
Tracking identified when the salamanders would be crossing the road. Road closures were only in place when conditions were favourable for migration and extended further into the season when needed. This was beneficial to the species and residents.
York Region thanks residents and motorists for their patience and help during the closures. Support from the community, City of Richmond Hill and Toronto and Region Conservation Authority prevented salamander mortality and advanced studies that will preserve the rich habitat and help the species to thrive.
Stouffville Road will be closed between Bayview Avenue and Leslie Street from Wednesday, July 2, 2025, at 7 a.m., to Friday, July 4, 2025, at 4 p.m., while crews install the tunnels and fencing.
