While in Hocking Hills the weekend of the 12th, Ohio’s early spring noise makers began tuning up. Throughout Ohio, temperatures have been above freezing and very little snow has fallen since late fall. This weekend, temps hit 70 during the day. Not an unusual occurrence, but this year it is the workings of a strong El Niño.

What was a surprise to me is the sound of Spring Peepers and Wood frogs tuning up! Never before have I witnessed a late December vocalization, so I consider it quite a treat!

The Peepers have been calling sporadically throughout the day from all areas of the forest near our location between Lancaster and Logan.  There has been no strong central location or chorus activity on the 12th. Nightfall seemed to have less activity then daylight. Before sunrise on the 13th I could hear 3 peepers chorusing from a single location. Peeps were consistent between the group, unlike those calling from the forest. 2 Wood frogs were heard introducing themselves with sporadic clucks. The fact that 2 species are vocalizing the broadcast call seems to imply they have been influenced by the warm spell. Past temperatures have dipped into the freezing range to mid 40s, so it looks like that cools cycle followed by exceedingly warm temps can trigger breeding activity. Fish and herpetologist breeders will often use temperature fluctuations, light cycles and water level changes to stimulate breeding activity. Chatter between 2 Great horned owls provided a beautiful backdrop!