Sneak Peep

Spring Peeper (Pseudacris crucifer)

The Owen Sound Field Naturalists Collection, #14

The Spring Peeper (Pseudacris crucifer) is one of Ontario's smallest and most acoustically extraordinary frogs, a tiny tree frog barely the size of a thumbnail whose deafening chorus rising from the wetlands and woodland edges of Grey and Bruce Counties each April is one of the most thrilling and unmistakable announcements that winter is finally over. Named for the distinctive X marking on its back and equipped with sticky toe pads that allow it to climb vegetation and tree bark with remarkable agility, the Spring Peeper spends most of its life hidden in shrubby woodland edges and leaf litter, heard by virtually everyone and seen by almost no one. Not currently listed as a species at risk in Ontario, Spring Peepers are nonetheless sensitive to wetland loss, water quality degradation, and the habitat fragmentation that disconnects the woodland and wetland edges they depend upon across Ontario. To encounter one face to face, that enormous voice emerging from something so impossibly small, is one of the most astonishing wildlife moments spring has to offer.

Reference photography for inspiration was kindly provided by Ryan Wolfe. Thank you!

✨ 15% will be donated to conservation from all OSFN Collection original paintings ✨

In a collaboration to highlight the enjoyment of our backyard wildlife here in Ontario, the Owen Sound Field Naturalists and signature member of Artists for Conservation, Sarah McComb Turbitt, created a challenge to paint as many local species as she can during March 2026. 15% of original artworks, 35% of limited-edition prints, and 50% of artwork cards will be donated to OSFN. The Owen Sound Field Naturalists promotes and fosters learning about nature through their ongoing programs and sponsorships. They support a wide variety of activities, including a Young Naturalists Program, stewardship of many natural heritage properties in Grey Bruce Counties, interpretive signage, presentations by knowledgeable speakers and outdoor excursions with experienced leaders.

All original artwork is hand-signed by Sarah McComb-Turbitt and includes a certificate of authenticity and white cotton gloves for handling the painting upon delivery.