Red-cheeked Salamander
Plethodon jordani
This slender-bodied salamander is named for its distinct pinkish-orange cheeks that contrast the rest of its slate grey body. It averages 3.5-5 inches in total length, ha…
How to identify
This slender-bodied salamander is named for its distinct pinkish-orange cheeks that contrast the rest of its slate grey body. It averages 3.5-5 inches in total length, has 15-16 very obvious costal grooves, and skinny legs. It has a narrow, flat head with bulging dark eyes. Its tail is round in cross-section, and about the same length as its body. Its ventrum is pale grey and unmarked.
Range
Small range that straddles the central section of border between Tennessee and North Carolina.
Habitat
This species lives on the floors of hardwood and coniferous forests. It particularly likes rocky areas with mossy ground cover and plentiful leaf litter where red spruce or Fraser fir trees grow. It is rarely found below 2000 feet in elevation. Like most salamanders, it frequently burrows underground and hides under rock and logs.
Variations
Slight variation in grey hue; some are darker than others. Cheek patches are usually salmon pink, but can be bright orange or reddish.
Similar species
Looks very similar to the imitator salamander (*Desmognathus imitator*) which overlaps in range and tends to have more dorsal patterning.
Name and etymology
Jordani: Honoring David S. Jordan.
At a glance
Size
9 to 18.4 cm
Range
Small range that straddles the central section of border between Tennessee and North Carolina.
Habitat
This species lives on the floors of hardwood and coniferous forests. It particularly likes rocky areas with mossy ground cove…
Range map
Approximate range. © Mapbox © OpenStreetMap