Spring peepers (Pseudacris crucifer) are among Wisconsin’s earliest and most vocal signs of spring. These tiny frogs, often no larger than a paperclip, are known for their high-pitched “peep” calls that echo through wetlands and woodlands from mid-April through early June. Although they are physically small and hard to spot, they can be recognized by their brown and tan color with a dark X- shaped mark on their back. Spring peepers thrive in moist forests and large woodlots, breeding in nearby wetlands, particularly those without fish, which helps protect their eggs and tadpoles from predation. Their breeding season typically spans from April to June, coinciding with the onset of warmer temperatures and increased rainfall. The males’ distinctive “peep” is produced by inflating a vocal sac located by the throat, creating a sound that can be heard up to a mile away, especially when multiple frogs call in unison. After mating, females lay clusters of eggs in the water, and tadpoles hatch within a few days. These tadpoles will grow into adult frogs over the course of the summer, preparing to hibernate under logs, leaf litter, or loose bark as fall approaches. Spring peepers have a remarkable adaptation that allows them to survive being partially frozen during the winter, which is essential for survival in Wisconsin’s cold climate. Remarkably, spring peepers can survive partial freezing of their bodily fluids, an adaptation that allows them to endure Wisconsin’s fluctuating spring temperatures. The life span of spring peepers is typically 3 to 4 years. Spring peepers are considered common in Wisconsin and are not currently listed as threatened or endangered. However, they serve as important indicators of wetland health. The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) encourages public participation in monitoring frog populations through programs like the Wisconsin Frog and Toad Survey. Some other important frogs that also let us know that spring is here are the Wood Frog, Western Chorus Frog, and the Green Frog. The Wood Frog sounds like ducks quacking and are some of the first frogs we here during the transition from winter to spring. The Western Chorus frog sounds like a fingernail being drug across the teeth of a plastic comb. The Green Frog is commonly heard in northern Wisconsin too. It makes a sound like someone is plucking a banjo string. Green frogs are heard later in spring and into summer. Frogs are typically nocturnal, so that is why if you are near a shallow wetland near evening this time of year, you can hear many different chirps, trills, and peeps.
For more information contact Kayla Littleton, Forest County Land Conservation and Land Information Director at 715-478-1387 or by e-mail at .