Spring
Peepers, Pseudacris c. crucifer are generally light brown,
with a dark brown, variable "X" pattern on their dorsum.
This dorsal pattern accounts for their species epithet, crucifer,
which translates as "one who bears a cross". They
are the only small, light brown frog in Rhode Island, with this
marking on their on the back.
Female spring peeper
(left) and male (above)
The
ventral skin (throat and
belly) of females is uniformly colored usually a yellowish-beige.
Males have a dark, olive-brown vocal sac that appears
as wrinkles on their throats (this allows the skin to expand
when calling). The wrinkly sac is most prominent during the
breeding season.
Spring peepers are
adapted for climbing- Each toe has a flattened, terminal
pad. The terminal pads aid in vertical climbing abilities by
adding surface tension through mucous secretions; the secretions
increases adhesive capabilities.
"CAMOUFLAGED"
Not only are these
creatures small
(2.6cm/ 1 inch) they are also extremely cryptic.
