back cover

Apr. 2002 - Vol. 63, No. 4

Back cover image Northern Spring Peeper (Hyla crucifer crucifer)

Throughout most of Missouri, the inch-long northern spring peeper is an audible harbinger of spring. During the breeding season, which lasts from early March to mid May, male peepers congregate near ditches and ponds and call repetitively with a high-pitched "peep." Northern spring peepers remain hidden during the day and become active at dusk.