Thousands Of Singing Spring Peepers Are A Welcome Sound Of A New Season Here In Maine

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Spring Peepers also look different from other species of frogs. They have an X-shaped mark on their backs making them impossible to miss.

Males have dark throats, while females are typically lighter in color.

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.

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!