Hellbender

Range

Current range includes large portion of Eastern and Midwestern states of the United States. Range as far north as New York and as far south as Georgia, western range ends in Oklahoma & Kansas, eastern range ends at the Atlantic shores of Maryland.

Habitats

Aquatic. Fast water, shallow, rocky streams. Avoid slow moving water and muddy shorelines. Primarily nocturnal.

Identification

Largest salamander species found in the United States. Coloring varies from brown to red dorsal side with a lighter underbelly. Covered in thick slime that protects animal from parasites and infections. Skin is wrinkled, legs stubby. Flat and elongated body up to 29 inches long, however average length is 12-15 inches long. Four toes on front limbs, five toes on hind limbs.

Learn more with Schechter Natural History's Guide to Reptiles and Amphibians