JD Wilson
Skin tan to brown or gray with dark "x" shape on back. Large toe pads. Not distinctly mottled striped or spotted. Size1.9 to 3.5 cm long (¾" to 1 ½") Similar SpeciesNorthern Spring Peeper, P. crucifer crucifer, is considered a subspecies and is characterized by a plain or almost plain belly. Other members of this genus are distinguished by distinctly striped, spotted or mottled patterns. Mountain Chorus Frogs, P. brachyphona, may have markings resembling a crude "x" on their backs but will also generally have a well defined dark triangle between their eyes. Bird-voiced and Gray Treefrogs, Hyla avivoca, H. chrysoscelis, and H. versicolor, all have a light spot beneath the eye. Pine Woods Treefrogs, H. femoralis, are distinguished by light spots on the rear of their thigh. ReproductionBreeds November to March in southern areas, March to June in northern areas. HabitatPrefers wooded areas in or near water; ponds, swamps, etc. Water source can be permanent or temporary. BehaviorNocturnal. May hibernate under logs and loose bark. VoiceLarge choruses may sound like sleigh bells from a distance. Individual calls are a single clear note repeated at about a one second interval; the sound is a high, piping whistle with a terminal upward slur (in contrast to the Ornate Chorus Frog, Pseudacris ornata, which has a piping note that ends sharply in its call). Some individuals may make a trilling peep call that is heard in the background of small choruses. Return to Frogs and Toads |
Last updated: March 11, 2019