Spring Peeper (Pseudacris crucifer)

October 1, 2011

Photo © by Dave Huth, some rights reserved. Click image for licensing information.

Spring Peeper at Tomahawk Pond, Virginia
Photograph © Steven David Johnson (All Rights Reserved)
Contact Steven David Johnson for image licensing

Spring Peeper at Tomahawk Pond, Virginia
Video © Steven David Johnson (All Rights Reserved)
Contact Steven David Johnson for image licensing

Photo © by Dave Huth, some rights reserved. Click image for licensing information.

Spring Peeper at Tomahawk Pond, Virginia
Photograph © Steven David Johnson (All Rights Reserved)
Contact Steven David Johnson for image licensing

Photo © by Dave Huth, some rights reserved. Click image for licensing information.

Spring Peeper on tree at Tomahawk Pond, Virginia
Photograph © Steven David Johnson (All Rights Reserved)
Contact Steven David Johnson for image licensing

Spring Peeper camouflaged in leaves
Photo © by Dave Huth, some rights reserved. Click image for licensing information.

Description

Pseudacris crucifer is a small species of frog, ranging from .75 of an inch to 1.25 inches in total length. A characteristic ‘X’ mark can usually be seen on the back of the frog. While P. crucifer displays no distinct color patterns on its surface, its observed color may be yellow, brown, gray or olive. This species may be distinguished from other members of the genus by its lack in distinct stripes, mottling, spotting, and the characteristic ‘X’ mark. P. c. bartramiana. and P. c. crucifer are subspecies

There are two described subspecies, the Northern Spring Peeper and the Southern Spring Peeper. The Northern subspecies has a virtually plain stomach while the southern one has prominent dark spots on the belly.

This species account was based on the account written by Conart and Collins, 1991.

Distribution and Habitat

Geographically, this species may be found from the Canadian Maritime Provinces to northern Florida, and from southeast Manitoba all the way to eastern Texas. One isolated (but natural) population exists in Kansas and an introduced population exists into Cuba. P. crucifer tends to be found in large numbers near ponds or swamps in brushy growth or cutover woodlands. Small, temporary or semipermanent lentic environments are ideal water sources for P. crucifer. Standing trees or shrubs provide a popular habitat for the choral groups to form.

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Life History, Abundance, Activity, and Special Behaviors

The breeding season is the best time to see and hear P. crucifer in the wild. Occasionally, individuals may be seen during the day in damp or rainy weather.

The call of this species resembles that of sleigh bells when heard from a distance. A terminal upward slur characterizes the high, single, clear whistle that is repeated at intervals of approximately 1 second. In the background of small choruses, a trilling peep may be uttered by some individuals.

Spring peepers gallery by Dave Huth