Spring Peeper

Written By: Highlands Biological Station | Issue: 2016/04 - April | Photograph By: Clay Bolt

The spring peeper’s most distinctive trait is the dark cross or X-shaped blotch that usually is found on its back. In fact, the species name “crucifer” means “cross bearing.” The spring peeper can be tan, gray, yellowish, orange or pinkish. It is a small frog with small toe pads. Spring peepers inhabit woodlands and swamps, preferring areas of thick, brushy undergrowth near ephemeral or semipermanent ponds.