Scott Bar Salamander

Range

These specie of salamander are restricted to a very small range in the Scott River drainage.Scott bar salamanders are found in California. It has also been spotted in some areas near the confluence of the Klamath and Scott Rivers hence the name Scott bar salamander.

Habitats

This specie inhabits in the forest, in shaded, moss-covered talus slopes mixed with evergreen and montane fir forests. They could also be found in mill creeks. Its reproduction pattern is poorly studied but likely similar to that of Plethodon elongatus whose mating occurs in the fall through early spring. Eggs are laid in spring or early summer. They feed on various invertebrates.

Identification

Scott bar salamander is robust, average-sized salamander with long limbs growing up to 61 mm for males and 67mm for females, with its tails taking up about 50.6mm of the length for males and 57 mm for the females. It has a relatively long hind limb and forelimb. It has brown or bronze dorsal stripe which extends from its heads to its tails and underparts with dark gray or purplish blotching. Its sides are brown colored. It usually has gold spotting on its sides and limbs. It also has gold flecks on the upper and lower region of its eyes. This specie of salamander lacks lungs but respires through its moist skin.

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