Spring Peeper
(Pseudacris c. crucifer)

	SPRING PEEPER
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	Spring peepers can be heard calling in large numbers from late March through May. Photo by Christopher Manning Adult spring peepers are not much bigger than a quarter and are New Hampshire’s smallest frogs. Photo by Mike Marchand Spring peepers have a dark marking in the shape of an X on their back. Photo by Mike Marchand The marking on the back of this peeper does not make a perfect X. Photo by Mike Marchand Spring peepers are often heard but seldom seen. Photo by Mike Marchand

NH Conservation Status: Not listed

State Rank Status: Widespread and secure

Distribution: Throughout NH

Description: A small .75"-1.5" tan, brown, or gray frog with a dark “X” marking across the back.  This species is seldom seen but often heard singing in chorus during evening hours.

Commonly Confused Species: Gray treefrog

Habitat: Often found in wet wooded areas often near swamps or ponds.  Also found in fields, meadows, and forests.

Life History: Up to 1000 eggs are attached individually to submerged vegetation in breeding pools.  Hibernates on land under moss and matted leaves.   

Voice: High-pitched, ascending whistle or peep

Conservation Threats: Species is secure

Distribution map: Click here for a map showing the towns where this species is reported to occur in NH