Talladega Seal Salamander
Desmognathus cheaha
D. cheaha is a large stream salamander. Body coloration can vary from tan to dark brown, with patterning that can be quite diverse. They may have well-defined light spo…
How to identify
D. cheaha is a large stream salamander. Body coloration can vary from tan to dark brown, with patterning that can be quite diverse. They may have well-defined light spots on the back, or a darker, splotchy or net-like pattern. The belly is typically light and unpatterned, with little to no flecking. Juveniles tend to have a bolder pattern with distinct pairs of spots running down their backs.
Range
D. cheaha is a salamander with a relatively restricted distribution compared to its close relatives. It's found in the southeastern United States, inhabiting streams within the Ridge and Valley, Piedmont, and Coastal Plain physiographic provinces of Alabama and Georgia. This range distinction separates it from its close relative, D. monticola which is primarily found in the Appalachian highlands.
Habitat
D. cheaha is a stream dweller. It prefers cool, clean, well-oxygenated streams with rocky bottoms and abundant leaf litter. They are primarily aquatic but may venture onto land at night, especially in areas with high moisture retention.
Similar species
Name and etymology
cheaha: Referencing Mt. Cheaha, the highest point in the Talladega Uplands
At a glance
Range
D. cheaha is a salamander with a relatively restricted distribution compared to its close relatives. It's found in the south…
Habitat
D. cheaha is a stream dweller. It prefers cool, clean, well-oxygenated streams with rocky bottoms and abundant leaf litter.…
Guide
Reptiles and Amphibians of North America
Range map
Approximate range. © Mapbox © OpenStreetMap