Cumberland Plateau Salamander
Plethodon kentucki
A black salamander with white spots all over, that are more prevalent on its sides. It grows to 4-5 cm in snout-vent length. Its tail and ventrum color is often slightly…
How to identify
A black salamander with white spots all over, that are more prevalent on its sides. It grows to 4-5 cm in snout-vent length. Its tail and ventrum color is often slightly lighter than the body. It has noticeable costal grooves.
Range
Ranges throughout the Cumberland Plateau of eastern Kentucky into southern West Virginia and western Virginia.
Habitat
Found in a variety of moist woodland habitats with lots of rocky places to hide.
Variations
White spots may be sparse or absent.
Similar species
Most likely to be misidentified as the northern slimy salamander (*Plethodon glutinosus*), Wehrle's Salamander (*Plethodon wehrlei*), or cow knob salamander (*Plethodon punctatus*).
Name and etymology
Kentucki: Of Kentucky.
More illustrations
At a glance
Range
Ranges throughout the Cumberland Plateau of eastern Kentucky into southern West Virginia and western Virginia.
Habitat
Found in a variety of moist woodland habitats with lots of rocky places to hide.
Guide
Reptiles and Amphibians of North America
Range map
Approximate range. © Mapbox © OpenStreetMap