Frozen Frogs
Scientists have placed Spring Peepers (Pseudacris crucifer) in the Chorus frog group, changing their original classification as a Treefrog.
Peepers are about ¾" to 1¼ " long and are a light brown color with an imperfect cross of darker brown on their back. They are found in second growth forests or woodlots near temporary ponds in the breeding season. During the summer and fall they are found on the forest floor in the leaf litter.
Peepers don't have feet strong enough for digging so they sleep the winter away above ground. In the autumn they form a hibernaculum or protected living space in leaves or crevices in rocks or logs to hide from predators. A higher concentration of glucose in their vital organs keeps the frogs from freezing to death.
Male Peepers emerge in late March after a thaw and immediately form large choral groups in areas where shrubs are submerged. Their song is a high-pitched peep or whistle that can be heard over a hundred feet away. The females emerge not long after and follow the sound of the chorus. They lay eggs in late March into early April and then head back into the woods. The tadpoles complete their lifecycle to adult in less than four months. The spring peeper's range is from Canada to northern Florida.
- Mary Gillick, Program Director
For more information see:
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NYS Dept. of Conservation - www.dec.ny.gov under animals & plants/amphibians
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Frogwatch with the Association of Zoos & Aquariums - www.aza.org
