Spring Peepers at Cattail Marsh Traditional Geocache

Spring Peepers are small chorus frogs that get their name from their chirping call, which marks the beginning of spring.

Scientifically known as Pseudacris crucifer, they're found throughout New Jersey and much of the east coast.. They are typically tan or brown (but occasionally green or grey) and have a dark cross that appears as a rough X across their dorsa (backs). When fully grown, they're between 1 and 1.5 inches long.

Females are slightly larger than males. They live in New Jersey's woodlands, wetlands, marshes, ponds, and swamps. They have the ability to change color to blend into their surroundings. Only males of the species can chirp, which they do often during mating season which runs from March until May. When mating season ends, you may still hear them on rainy nights.

The Spring Peepers at cattail marsh cache is located in the Conservation Management Area (CMA) of the Great Swamp Watershed Association (GSWA). This area contains critical wetlands, vernal pools, forested areas, and the Silver Brook, a feeder stream to the Passaic River. This cattail marsh is a wet depression in an open area with no canopy cover. Years ago it may have been a much deeper pond that has gradually filled in. This spot has become home to Great Blue Herons, green frogs and spring peepers.

In November 2010 the cattail marsh boardwalk was completed with the help from the Northern New Jersey Cachers, NNJC. Old Navy, TheSurfcaster, Jeeeper1, Swamplande'r, Fusilli Jerry, and Biga800. (Justin & Allan not pictured) Thanks to these folks who volunteered their time to complete this boardwalk for this beautiful park. Also pictured are GSWA members Hazelle and Steve who managed this project for GSWA. This boardwalk completes the trail system inside the GSWS.