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Valley And Ridge Salamander

Fact File

Scientific Name: Plethodon hoffmani

Classification: Amphibian

Size: Up to 5.4 inches

Identifying Characteristics

This is an elongated salamander with short legs. The body is brown to brownish black with numerous small whitish specks with a tail that is more than 50% of the total length. Throat is white and the belly is black with a mottled white and brown pattern. A rare striped morph occurs in the Reddish Knob and Shenandoah Mountain region.

Distribution:

Primarily found in forested habitats of the Northern Ridge and Valley ecoregion from Frederick County south to Russell and Washington counties.

Did You Know?

The large tail serves for fat storage providing a source of energy while they are underground.

Role in the Web of Life

Mostly active in the spring and fall months with only a small portion of the population occurring above ground. Mating occurs primarily in the spring with a secondary event in the fall. Females deposit 3-8 eggs. Hatching occurs in August or September, but hatchlings do not emerge from underground retreats until the following spring. Adults eat a wide variety of invertebrates.

Conservation

Species appears to be secure in Virginia.

Last updated: January 22, 2024

The Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources Species Profile Database serves as a repository of information for Virginia’s fish and wildlife species. The database is managed and curated by the Wildlife Information and Environmental Services (WIES) program. Species profile data, distribution information, and photography is generated by the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources, State and Federal agencies, Collection Permittees, and other trusted partners. This product is not suitable for legal, engineering, or surveying use. The Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources does not accept responsibility for any missing data, inaccuracies, or other errors which may exist. In accordance with the terms of service for this product, you agree to this disclaimer.