In Maine, the first species we typically hear is the Wood Frog (Lithobates sylvaticus).  This distinctive looking amphibian has a brown mask behind the eyes and the ability to freeze solid all winter and yet thaw out unharmed and ready for action in early spring, a physiological coup that has garnered this species a lot of scientific attention.  Returning to life with warming temperatures and rain in early spring gives these former frogsicles a jump on the mating season.  In fact they will finish before some other frog species even begin.  This timing means less chance of your temporary spring "vernal" pool drying up before your offspring have had the chance to hop away safely.  Wood frogs typically complete the developmental gauntlet from egg to tadpole to frog in only two months.  Their vocal stylings have been described as quacking ducks, clucking chickens, and even rowdy turkeys…depending on who you ask.  So perhaps it is best if you listen for yourselves.  Their calls might even sound familiar if you live within earshot of vernal pools, like many of us in the Sebasticook watershed.  Pay attention because the onset of their calling may also signal another important spring phenomenon known as a Big Night.