Vertebrate Zoology

Herpetology

Online Guide to the Amphibians
and Reptiles of Connecticut

Spring Peeper
Pseudacris crucifer

Amphibia: Frogs and Toads | Salamanders
Reptilia: Turtles | Snakes | Lizards
Division of Vertebrate Zoology | Herpetology

Description

The smallest species of frog in Connecticut. It reaches a maximum body length of 1.5 inches (3.7 cm) as an adult. The toes have adhesive disks similar to those of tree frogs. The dorsal coloration is brown or brownish red, nearly always with a dark “X” pattern in the middle.

Reproduction

Breeds very early in the spring, often when snow is still on the ground. Eggs are laid in vernal pools and quickly hatch within a few days. Metamorphosis into tiny froglets occurs within a few weeks.

Spring Peeper eggs (left) from Canaan, Connecticut.

Juveniles

This Spring Peeper from Canaan, Connecticut (at right), has nearly completed metamorphosis.

Vocalization

Listen

Habitat

Reclusive outside the breeding season, but is found in woodland areas with marshy, vernal ponds or bogs.

Food

Small insects, including termites.

Range

Widespread throughout the state with several populations known from each county.

Status

Common.

References

Conant, R. and J.T. Collins. 1991. A Field Guide to Reptiles and Amphibians: Eastern/Central North America. Boston: Houghton Mifflin. 450 pp.

Klemens, M.W. 1993. Amphibians and Reptiles of Connecticut and Adjacent Regions. Hartford, CT: State Geological and Natural History Survey of Connecticut Bulletin 112. 318 pp.

Credits

Text by Gregory J. Watkins-Colwell.
Photographs © Twan Leenders. All rights reserved. Used by permission. Animals featured in photographs on this page are from Connecticut.

Audio files from The Calls of Frogs and Toads [book and CD-ROM]
Published March 2004 by Stackpole Books; 1.800.732.3669.
© 1994 Lang Elliott/NatureSound Studio
http://www.naturesound.com/stackpole/frogs.html
All rights reserved. Used by permission.

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