Eastern Red-backed Salamander
Plethodon cinereus
Commonly Confused Native Species:
-
Often Not Confused with other Species
IDENTIFICATION
Size: A small sized salamander measuring 2.8 to 4 inches in
length, with a cylindrical tail.
Color: Two major color morphs occur, the “redback” or striped
phase and the “leadback” or un-striped phase. The
dorsum of the redback phase has a broad red to reddish
orange dorsal strip extending to the tail edged with dark
grayish black on the sides. The leadback phase is
similar, but lacks the dorsal stripe and has more whitish
silver flecking on the dorsum and sides. The venter is
dark in color.
Behavior: Red-backed salamanders typically flee when uncovered,
the stripe phase may remain completely still relying on
its red-stripe to ward off predators.
Habitat: Forested habitat across the state.