Carolina Sandhills Salamander

Range

The Carolina Sandhills salamander (Eurycea arenicola) is endemic to the Sandhills region of North Carolina. It is currently known from seven counties in the central and southern parts of the state.

Habitats

E. arenicola is semi-terrestrial and reproduces in aquatic habitats such as springs and blackwater streams. It has a biphasic life cycle, with eggs and larvae being aquatic and adults living on land. The breeding season, courtship behavior, clutch size, and larval duration are poorly known, but some evidence suggests that females lay eggs in winter and guard their nests. The larvae feed on small invertebrates and remain in the water for at least one year before metamorphosing into adults.

Identification

Eurycea arenicola is a small and slender salamander that belongs to the E. bislineata complex. It has a long tail that makes up almost half of its total length, which ranges from 56 to 89 mm. It has a short and rounded snout with nostrils close to the tip. Males have nasal cirri and a mental gland on the chin. Its color varies from olive yellow to red, with a row of black spots along the sides of its body and tail.

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