Columbia Torrent Salamander
Rhyacotriton kezeri
This yellow-brown salamander with tiny white flecks grows to a total length of about 10 cm. Its legs and ventrum are lighter and more yellow than its back. It has costal…
How to identify
This yellow-brown salamander with tiny white flecks grows to a total length of about 10 cm. Its legs and ventrum are lighter and more yellow than its back. It has costal grooves.
Range
Small range in the Pacific northwest, including the southwest corner of Washington and northwest corner of Oregon.
Habitat
This species lives in and around clear, cold mountain waterways in temperate forest environments.
Variations
Dorsal coloration can be more brown or dull orange.
Similar species
The more south-ranging southern torrent salamander (*Rhyacotriton variegatus*) bears resemblance but has darker speckles, as does the Olympic torrent salamander (*Rhyacotriton olympicus*) which is found further north. The Cascade torrent salamander (*Rhyacotriton cascadae*) lives further east.
Name and etymology
Kezeri: Honoring James Kezer.
At a glance
Range
Small range in the Pacific northwest, including the southwest corner of Washington and northwest corner of Oregon.
Habitat
This species lives in and around clear, cold mountain waterways in temperate forest environments.
Guide
Reptiles and Amphibians of North America
Range map
Approximate range. © Mapbox © OpenStreetMap