Western Lesser Siren
Siren intermedia nettingi

Union Co., Illinois May 19, 2001
 

Even after several decades, this place, still my favorite of anywhere I've ever been, continues to amaze and delight me. It had rained all day, and that night it was still raining, and the Snake Road was underwater in low places. That was no deterrent to us - dry or wet, May nights are times for a frog walk.

Rick Milas spotted this little siren wiggling in a small puddle of water on the road. We knew they were here, out in the surrounding swamps by the thousands. We just never thought we'd see one. Here was one of the creatures preyed upon by the equally elusive Mud Snake.