Desmognathus monticola
Home Back to Salamanders
photo by Jeff Humphries
Appalachian Seal Salamander
Desmognathus monticola
Home Back to Salamanders
photo by Jeff Humphries
| Species Description: Seal
salamanders are usually tan to brown with darker spots or worm-like markings
on the back. The belly is transparent or very pale and there are
14 costal grooves. The tail is compressed, sharply keeled, and has
a pointed tip. They can attain total lengths up to 5.5 inches (14.0
cm). Supposedly, they look like little seals sitting on rocks.
Habitat: This species is usually found in cool, high gradient streams in the Mountains of West Virginia. They hide under rocks, logs, and moss during the day. During night, seal salamanders sit up on wet rocks or at the entrance to their burrow and can easily be seen with a flashlight. Breeding Activity: Seals attach eggs (up to 36) singly to the underside of rocks or leaves in seeps or moist areas along a stream. Eggs are laid from June through September in West Virginia, and are guarded by the female. Their larval stage is around 12 to 13 months. Range: In West Virginia, the seal salamander occurs throughout the state except for those counties on the far western edge, along the Ohio river (Cabell, Jackson, Mason, and Putnam Counties). Comments: This species is the most common salamander used for bait in West Virginia. They are often referred to as "spring lizards" at bait shops. Though this species is very abundant in many streams, local extirpation can easily result from bait collecting. Status: Not listed. |
