whitespotted slimy salamander (Plethodon cylindraceus)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CHARACTERISTICS: This is a large Plethodon salamander that

is named for its skin-gland secretions that cling to your hands like

glue. This salamander is well sprinkled with silvery white spots or

brassy flecks or both. The belly is normally lighter than the dorsum.

Eggs are laid in or under logs and among roots, but are rarely found.

In the coastal plain, females lay eggs annually in late summer or fall.

 

DISTRIBUTION: This species occurs in the Piedmont and Ridge

& Valley regions of Virginia from sea level to 1500 meters elevation.

This is mainly a deciduous woodland salamander that is active on

the moist forest floor at night from spring to fall. By day, it hides

under rocks and logs, and it stays underground during dry periods.

 

FOODS: This salamander eats spiders, beetles, ants, millipedes,

other insects, and various insect larvae.

 

 

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