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Think Small

© Jim Baines

Think Small

Uploaded: September 28, 2010

Description


Blanchard's Cricket Frog
Acris crepitans blanchardi
(1/2 inch body length)

Clear Creek Pond
West Fort Hood, Texas
21 September 2010


Exif: F Number: 10, Exposure Bias Value: 0.00, ExposureTime: 10/1250 seconds, Flash: did not fire., ISO: 500, White balance: Auto white balance, FocalLength: 105.00 mm, Model: NIKON D200

Comments

Jim Baines level-classic September 28, 2010 0

This little critter is one of the smallest vertebrates in North America and only one of the two species lives right here in Texas: Blanchard's cricket frog (Acris crepitans blanchardi). Adults grow to about the size of a thumb print and come in colors and patterns galore. They can be quite difficult to photograph despite being active all year. Their size alone helps them vanish beneath the smallest things, like blades of grass or a dead leaf. And jumping is the name of their game!. They can jump as far as six feet, which is pretty impressive for their size. Though the motion can help you find them if you don’t already know they’re in the area, it also means they can vanish in the blink of an eye if they jump into thick foliage or tall grass.

Depending on the lighting you may notice a certain shape on its head. Why it's a li'l ol' heart! Technically it’s a triangle but that's no fun! See the light stripe running from the eye to the front leg ... a positive identifier for these li'l guys. Considering how common they are here, seeing them is never a problem. Recognizing them is another story. Their size makes them seem like juveniles of several different species, the unending array of colors and patterns can be confusing, and their bumpy skin always makes them look like young toads instead of frogs.
#1312392

Jeff Robinson level-deluxe September 28, 2010 0

Fantastic capture Jim! Jeff #8934383

Nancyj E. Hovey level-classic September 28, 2010 0

Oh I love those lil' critters..and you have captured this one perfect. Great details for such a wee thing! Outstanding presentation! 8o) #8934393

Nancyj E. Hovey level-classic September 28, 2010 0

Not only a heart, but if you look closer, there is a butterfly holding that heart up....what do you think? 8o) #8934397

Ron McEwan September 28, 2010 0

Totally amazing Jim. This is one incredible close up and a little luck had to play a part in this great capture I would think #8934508

Michelle Alton September 28, 2010 0

Seems to be saying "I heart you, Jimbo!"

Your photos belie the size of this tiny creature. My old eyes probably would've missed him altogether!

Fantastic natural work, to be sure. #8934540

Tammy M. Anderson level-deluxe September 28, 2010 0

fantastic find and super macro, Jim. #8934625

Tammy Espino September 28, 2010 0

A cute little critter capture! Hope he's eating all those spiders you have running around :) #8935285

Val Feldman level-classic September 29, 2010 0

I truly do not know how you managed this...I've never been able to get close enough for a capture even with a long lens...OK, Tex - are you onto a "frog lure spray" I know nothing about??? Excellent info - I always learn coming to your gallery and between your captures and your commentary, it's a real pleasure. #8936848

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