Reproductive ecology and havitat analysis of the Northern Spring peeper (Hyla c. crucifer) in southeastern Kansas.

Abstract

The breeding ecology and habitat requirements of the Northern Spring Peeper (Hyla c. crucifer) were investigated in this study. Observations were made on reproductive activities and behaviors within an established population in Cherokee County, Kansas. The status of populations in all ponds described in a 1982 study by Collins was determined. One hundred seven calling male Hyla crucifer were found from 18 February to 27 April 1984 in ten ponds. A habitat study, including vegetational analysis and water composition, was conducted for each of the ponds, plus three additional ponds found to contain Spring Peepers. Factors critical to the maintenance of breeding colonies included presence of pond edge and emergent vegetation, stands of trees in close proximity to the pond, and presence of mats of filamentous algae as a food source for tadpoles. Based upon these factors, five ponds were determined to contain optimal breeding habitat for Spring Peepers.