March 22, 2009: I have been told that this box is missing. If you find that to be the case, please let me know so eventually I can change the status to retired. Thanks!
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Under the Endangered Species Act of 1973, The Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) is tasked with protecting those species that live on land or in fresh water while the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) protects those species that live in the ocean. As of October 6, 2006, there were more than 1100 animal species listed as endangered or threatened in the world. 567 of these species live in the U.S. while 94 live in Texas. This letterbox series is dedicated to raising awareness of some of these Texas species.
You may feel helpless to make a significant change that would help these endangered and threatened animals. Many, if not most, of these animals are at risk because of loss of habitat. While it is true that you cannot single-handedly stop urban sprawl, you can help preserve habitats that do exist. Carry a bag with you as you go out letterboxing. Pick up trash that you find along the way, whether it be on the trails, the playground, or the parking lot. Even if the natural habitat is shrinking… we can join efforts in keeping what little is left pristine for the animals that live there. So the next time you are “hiding a box better than you found it”…. Consider leaving the area better than you found it as well.
More information can be obtained from websites such as the following:
http://www.fws.gov/endangered/http://www.endangeredspecie.com/The Endangered Species of Texas Letterbox Series was jointly created by Queen Beeloved, Stargazer1, and the PEAS. For a full list of these boxes, search by name using the words, “Endangered Species of Texas.” If you would like to contribute to this series, feel free to select one of the remaining endangered species. Feel free to contact one of us for additional information!
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Endangered Species of Texas: Barton Springs Salamander
Scientific name: Eurycea sosorum
Status: Endangered
Listed: 1997
This slender, long-legged salamander measures about 2.5 inches in total length and have red external gills. The species is entirely aquatic throughout its life. They are known to eat amphipods (tiny aquatic crustaceans) and other small, aquatic animals. Captive specimens feed on amphipods, earthworms, white worms, and brine shrimp.
The Barton Springs Salamander occurs only at the spring outflows of Barton Springs in Austin, Texas. The species is clearly capable of living underground, but also inhabits surface environments. Because it “relies on the clear, pure water of the Barton Springs Aquifer, protection of the quality and quantity of water flowing from Barton Springs is essential for its survival. Threats to water quality such as urban runoff, increased development in the Barton Creek watershed, and the risks of a toxic chemical spill or sewer line breakage in the urban zone surrounding Barton Springs remain a concern. Also of concern are reduced groundwater supplies due to increased urban water use.”
“From 1970 to 1992 the population of this species dropped sharply. We now know that certain pool maintenance practices, such as the use of high-pressure hoses, hot water, and chemicals were harmful to the salamanders and the aquatic plants in the pool and nearby spring outlets that provide their habitat. … Today, the pool is maintained in ways that minimize damage to the salamander and its habitat. Residents and visitors to Austin will be happy to know that swimming in Barton Springs Pool does not pose a threat to the salamander or its habitat. With proper management, the pool will continue to provide refreshing enjoyment for people and habitat for the Barton Springs Salamander.”
This and other information, including how you can help protect this species, can be found at:
http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/huntwild/wild/species/bartonspringssalamander/* * * * * *
CLUES:
The Barton Springs Salamander is located at … well, Barton Springs. (That is, after all, the only place he lives!) To find him, park in the parking lot of the Zilker Park playground (the one close to the Barton Springs pool). Walk past the playground to the right and find Eliza Springs. Take a few minutes to read about the Barton Springs Salamander.
Facing the information sign, turn to your left and follow the path past the playground (keeping the playground on your left.) At the end of the playground, find the stone steps that lead down to the right beyond the end of the Barton Springs pool. (There are two sets of steps. The first are beyond a locked gate, but the second are open to the public. Those are the ones I am referring to.) Follow the steps down. At the base of the steps, turn a little to the right and go to the railing overlooking the river. Follow the railing to the right until you get to the concrete embankment. The salamander is hiding on a ledge under the embankment (up and to the right.) He should be covered well with rocks and other debris.
Please rehide him well so that if anyone looks up there, just out of curiosity, he will not be seen. We don’t want another Barton Springs Salamander to go missing!
