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Northern Dusky Salamander   

Desmognathus fuscus
 

Commonly Confused Native Species:

 

  • Often Not Confused with other Species

IDENTIFICATION

 

Size:                  A small to medium sized salamander measuring 2.8 to

                           5.0 inches in length with a laterally compressed tail that

                           is triangular in cross-section.     

 

Color:                The dorsum is brown with a light dorsal stripe extending

                           to the tail; in older adults this stripe may not be present.

                           There is a light line that extends from the back edge of

                           the eye to the angle of the jaw. The venter is a whitish

                           cream in color.            

 

Behavior:         Behavior is variable from remaining completely still to

                           quickly fleeing when uncovered.        

 

Habitat:             Streams and seeps throughout the state.            

 

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