Winter is a great time to be in Maine, but when spring arrives there’s a welcome change in the air. Of course, things get warmer, but there’s also an excitement that can’t be ignored. The trees sprout buds and flowers begin to emerge from the soil. In short, we’re always happy to see warmer and happier days on their way. And, of course, one of the many indications that winter is nearing its end is the arrival of spring peepers in Maine! Keep an eye out for the unmistakable sound.

The Spring Peeper frog is found throughout the eastern part of the United States and Canada. While it’s actually called the “Pseudacris crucifer,” most folks just know it by the name that refers to their singing voices. When you hear it you'll know spring has arrived.
Fyn Kynd / Flickr
Peepers lay as many as 1,000 eggs at a single time and the tadpoles remain for about two to three months before becoming the frogs we recognize.
ShortBus at English Wikipedia / Public domain
They’re considered woodland creatures and they can be found near ponds, streams, or swamps, particularly on the ground near leaves. This allows them to blend in and stay safe.
Fyn Kynd / Flickr
Of course, these aren’t the only frogs here in Maine. So, how do you identify a Spring Peeper? First, there’s the unmistakable high-pitched call.
USGS / Public domain

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Each frog has a vocal sac that they expand and deflate like a balloon. While it might sound like every frog within miles is singing, the sound is actually only made by males when they’re trying to attract a mate.
usfwsnortheast / Flickr
Spring Peepers also look different from other species of frogs. They have an X-shaped mark on their backs making them impossible to miss.
Judy Gallagher / Flickr
Males have dark throats, while females are typically lighter in color.
Justin Meissen / Flickr
They're fairly easy to identify, but don’t expect to see many. They’re nocturnal, which means they only come out after dark to feed on small insects such as beetles, ants, flies, and spiders. And they're one of the smallest species you'll find.
Fyn Kynd / Flickr
While you can’t see them, the sound is unmistakable. In the evening, sit outside or even near a window and listen for the sign that spring is here in Maine!

You can learn more about Spring Peepers in Maine on the University of Maine fact sheet website. Have you ever heard their call? If so, let us know where and when! And, if you’re interested in more springtime nature in the Pine Tree State, there are some fanciful little fliers that you’ll definitely want to keep an eye out for!

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Enjoying Spring in Maine

Sarah M. | March 08, 2022

What are the best hiking trails in Maine during spring?

The best hiking trails in Maine during spring include:

  • Alewive Woods Preserve, Kennebunk. This forested preserve is approximately 625 acres and includes Alewife Pond. There are about 2.5 miles of trails making up the entire network.
  • Jordan Pond Loop Trail, Acadia National Park. Be sure to enjoy the beloved restaurant at the end of this trail. It looks out over the water!
  • Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge, Biddeford. This is a great hike if you love beach views. There are plenty in this 14,600-acre refuge sitting directly on Curtis Cove.

 

There are quite a few beautiful spring hikes to take in Maine. Be sure to plan ahead to experience as many as you can.

Are there any lavender farms in Maine?

There are some wonderful lavender farms in Maine.

  • Riverside Lavender Farm, Steep Falls. This farm, sitting on the Saco River, has more than 6,000 lavender plants. They also offer everything from herbs, vegetables, berries, and flowers.
  • Braun's Riverside Lavender Farm, Steep Falls. Those who love lavender will appreciate that you can actually sleep under the stars here. They have their very own campground area.
  • Moore Manor, Newport. This farm has been around since 2014 and today they have over 2,000 plants.
  • Glendarragh Farm, Appleton. This 26-acre Maine farm is located along the St. George River, offering both fresh air and the most beautiful lavender plants.

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