Ocoee Salamander

Range

There are 2 distinct populations of this species. The larger range is centered around the southwestern corner of North Carolina, and adjacent corners of Tennessee, Georgia, and South Carolina in the Blue Ridge Mountains. The smaller range is located in the northeastern corner of Alabama and adjacent southern Tennessee, in the Appalachian Plateau.

Habitats

This species can be found at a range of altitudes. At lower elevations, it tends to be more aquatic, and at higher elevations more terrestrial. It is most often found on wet rock faces, stream beds, seepage areas, and moist forest floors. The Appalachian population prefers mature hardwood forests.

Identification

The color and pattern of this species is extremely variable. In general, it is a small salamander with a stocky body, well-developed legs, long toes, and a tail that's shorter or equal in length to its body. It averages 3 cm in snout to vent length.

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