Maryland Department of Natural Resources

Field Guide to Maryland's Frogs and Toads (Order Anura)


Spring Peeper (Pseudacris crucifer)

Adult Northern Spring Peeper, photo courtesy of Scott A. Smith
Adult Spring Peeper, photo courtesy of Scott A. Smith
Former Name:

Size:
  • ¾ - 1¼ inches 
  • Record - 1½ inches

    • Appearance:
  • A small treefrog with a yellow, olive, grey or brown back.
  • It has a diagnostic dark cross on its back in the shape of an “X”.

    • Habitats:

    Photo of Habitat for Northern Spring Peeper, courtesy of Rebecca Chalmers
    Photo of Habitat for Spring Peeper, courtesy of Rebecca Chalmers

  • Woodlands, particularly areas recently cut-over with brushy second growth, near shallow temporary or semi-permanent bodies of water where they call from during breeding season.
  • Considerable habitat overlap with chorus frogs.

    • How to Find:
  • Listen for the call from February to March, a piercing high single whistle “peep” repeated about every second.
  • A large chorus from a distance has been likened to the sound of sleigh bells.
  • Look on clumps of grasses and on the branches of low shrubs.
  • Best method to find is to triangulate with flashlights on same calling individual.
  • Calls day or night.
    • ​

    Distribution in Maryland:
    Spring Peepers can be found throughout Maryland.
    Maryland Distribution Map for Northern Spring Peeper 
    For More Information: