Skip to Main Content

Allegheny Mountain Dusky Salamander

Fact File

Scientific Name: Desmognathus ochrophaeus

Classification: Amphibian

Size: Up to 4 inches

Identifying Characteristics

This smaller Dusky Salamander is highly variable in coloration. The back may be light to dark gray, but a broad yellow, brown or red stripe may be present. Large adults may be a uniform dark gray. The tail is rounded in cross section, all the way to the tip.

Diet

Larvae feed on small invertebrates. Adults eat a variety of prey items, including adult and immature terrestrial insects, terrestrial worms, other terrestrial invertebrates, aquatic insects, and aquatic snails.

Distribution:

Allegheny Mountain Dusky Salamanders are found in the western, montane counties in high elevation mix hardwood forests. They are frequently found at a distance from streams, presumably to avoid predation by larger species of Desmognathus.

Allegheny mountain dusky salamander range map

Did You Know?

Adults will aggressively defend their territory against other salamanders, including members of their own species.

Role in the Web of Life

Mating occurs in spring, summer or fall. Females attach their eggs to the roof of a small underground depression, and remain with them until hatching. Larvae live in seeps or shallow slow-moving portions of streams for several weeks to eight months before metamorphosis. They feed on small invertebrates. Adults emerge from cover just after sunset and actively move about in search of small terrestrial invertebrates.

Last updated: January 19, 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.