Scientific Name: Ambystoma jeffersonianum
Size: 4.75-8.25 inches (12.1-21 cm) in length
PA Status: Species of special concern

Habitat Type:
Deciduous or mixed hardwood-coniferous forest with temporary or permanent ponds.

Colorations:

• The color varies with age.
• The dorsal background is greyish black and becomes lighter on the sides and ventral surfaces. The dorsum and sides are covered with pale blue to silvery flecks. The flecks are larger and more numerous on the sides than on the back.
• The dorsal surface of the head and appendages has blue flecks.
• Older individuals are uniform brownish black.

Characteristics:

• Moderate-sized species
• The body is relatively slender.
• The head is only slightly distinct from the neck.
• The legs are well-developed with long slender toes.
• The tail is laterally compressed, heavy, oval in the cross-section and tapers to a point.
• Dermal glands are located over the entire dorsal surface and concentrated on the tail.
• 12-13 costal grooves.

Recently morphed coloration and characteristics:

• The dorsal is brown and becomes lighter on the sides and ventral with no blue spots, but they may have some yellow flecking.

Larvae coloration and characteristics:

• Pond type.
• The body is greenish grey or brown with yellow mottling.
• The ventral is silvery to white.
• Large, well-developed dorsal and caudal fins.
• The head is large and broad.
• The limbs are long and thin.

Confused with:

• Northern Dusky
• Spotted Salamander

Coloration/Pattern Photos:
Adults

Larvae

Eggs

Range Map:

References:

• Hulse, C. and McCoy C. J. and Ellen Censky ,1998. Amphibians and Reptiles of Pennsylvania and the Northeast. 51-55pp.
• Petranka, James W. ,1998. Salamanders of the United States and Canada. 58-62pp.

Photo Credits:

• Rex Everett
• Wayne Fidler
• Jason Poston