ODNR Division of Wildlife - A to Z Species Guide - Northern Spring Peeper

 Northern Spring Peeper

northern spring peeper

The Northern spring peeper is so small that it could sit comfortably on a dime! Its shrill, birdlike peep, or whistle, can be heard for a great distance.
 

Northern Spring Peeper
Pseudacris crucifer crucifer

At-a-Glance

• Length: 0.75-1.25 inches

• Incubation: 6-12 days

• Clutch Size: 800-1000 eggs

• Typical Foods: insects


Description
Easily identified by the dark “X” on it back as well as its rounded tree-frog toe pads.

Habitat and Habits
It makes its appearance at the first hint of spring, while traces of ice remain on the shallow breeding ponds. After breeding season, it moves upland to moist woodlands -- hiding among the shrubs and feeding on insects and other small organisms.

Reproduction and Care of the Young
Breeding takes place from March to June. The masses of eggs are laid in the water. The tadpoles transform in July.