Spring Peeper, Woodland Trails

We found a Spring Peeper, Pseudacris crucifer, at Woodland trails at the second, smaller pond. We found this frog in the swampier area of the pond that contained a lot of vegetation such as grasses and cattails. The area we found it in was consistent with its typical preferred habitat of marshy swamps or ponds. The peeper was a dark brown color, had round disk-like fingertips and a dark cross on its back that made it easy to identify. These frogs will only reach a size of about 20-25 millimeters at maturity. Males will gather at a pond (hundreds gather together and try to establish territory) and begin to start their mating calls shortly after hibernation. The males who can call the fastest and longest (their call is a "peep" noise) have the best chance of attracting a female, but females also tend to choose the largest male mate available. The breeding season typically lasts from March to June. Spring peeper adults feed during the late afternoon or early evening and eat small insects such as spiders, ants and flies. They have a lot of predators which include snakes, salamanders, owls and other birds. Their small size helps them survive because they are able to hide under available litter. (posted by Jeff Naples)