Spring is hopping: the arrival of the frogs

Spring arrived in March, but as in most years, winter seemed to take its time leaving. The true arrival of spring is marked by the call of the spring peepers in the wetlands.

Spring peepers announce the first real warmth of spring with a chorus of peeping calls. They are the first, but not the only, frogs and toads heard during spring. Pickerel frogs can be heard along the shore of some ponds, sounding off with a low croak. The American toad gets into the act around now with a trilling song, and when there are many, they make quite a racket. For a sound file of some American toads, visit riverreporter.com/issues/07-05-24/rivertalk.WAV.

There has been some concern of recent years due to the fact that some frog and toad populations have been declining. The reason for the decline is not clear. Scientists are studying several possible causes including pollution, climate change and increased UV rays due to ozone layer depletion. A frog or toad readily absorbs its surrounding environment through its skin, which may make it akin to the canary carried into the mines before the advent of modern-day gas detectors.

There is an effort underway to observe and listen to frogs in all areas to determine if there are declining numbers in given areas. Frogwatch USA is looking for volunteers who can give a few minutes each week at their favorite pond or wetland. For more information visit nwf.org/frogwatchUSA/.