Gyrinophilus porphyriticus

Spring Salamander

Gyrinophilus porphyriticus

Photo credit unknown.

Gyrinophilus porphyriticus

Photo by T. Yuta.
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Distribution of Gyrinophilus porphyriticus in Vermont

Distribution Map

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Identification

The Spring Salamander is one of the larger salamanders in Vermont; it can grow to 8 inches long. It is salmon-pink to reddish with black mottling. White lines outlined in black run from their eyes to their nostrils. Their tails are laterally compressed (like a fish) and all of their legs are thick and strong.

Spring Salamanders lay 16-160 eggs attached to the underside of rocks in the water.

Range/Habitat

The Spring Salamander requires well-oxygenated, cold, clear streams or springs. On rainy nights they often feed on land in the vicinity of the steam.

The Spring Salamander is found statewide in or near mountains.

Status

Spring salamanders have a state natural heritage rank of S4 (relatively common). Please report sightings of this species in Vermont if you have not reported them within the last five years from a given location. Any natural history observations (feeding, migrations, road crossing areas, early or late season appearance, abnormalities, etc.) are appreciated. Photographs are always helpful, particularly if your report is the first report of this species from a town.

More Info

Species summary written by Kaile Burgess.

Gyrinophilus porphyriticus egg mass

Gyrinophilus porphyriticus egg mass

Photo taken by J. Andrews.

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