Maryland's Salamanders and Newts (Order Caudata)
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Seal Salamander (Desmognathus monticola) |
Adult Photo of Seal Salamander courtesy of David Kazyak
Adult Photo of Seal Salamander courtesy of Jay Kilian
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Size:
3 ¼ - 5 in; Record – 5 ⅞ in.
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Appearance:- Stout salamander with a keeled tail and pointed tip.
- Mottled back that’s variable in color, usually dark brown or blackish markings on a gray or light brown background.
- The belly is white or light gray, with uniform gray or light brown markings.
- Sometimes, a single row of white dots appears on the sides, between the legs.
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Habitat:
Habitat Photo for Seal Salamander courtesy of Matt Kline
- Preferred habitat includes the rocky banks of mountain streams with well-aerated water.
- Cool, hardwood-shaded ravines and spring-fed brooks.
- Always found close to water.
- Burrows during the day.
- At night, it can be found at the opening of its burrow in the stream bank or perched on a wet rock.
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Distribution in Maryland: |
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