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Blue Ridge Two-Lined Salamander

Fact File

Scientific Name: Eurycea wilderae

Classification: Amphibian

Conservation Status:

Size: Up to 4.5 inches

Identifying Characteristics

Blue Ridge Two-lined Salamanders are bright yellow to orange, with two dark stripes, one running down either side and onto the tail. The dark stripe extends less than half way down the tail before breaking into short dashes and spots.

Distribution:

Blue Ridge Two-lined Salamander is a high elevation species known from Washington, Smyth, Carroll, and Grayson counties in southwestern Virginia. They inhabit streams in the fall to early spring. During the summer, it is not uncommon to find them dispersed into the surrounding forest.

Did You Know?

The Blue Ridge Two-lined Salamander was once considered a subspecies of the Northern Two-lined Salamander.

Role in the Web of Life

Blue Ridge Two-lined Salamanders forage at night for small invertebrates. Mating occurs in the fall and early spring when they congregate at streams. Females attach their white eggs to the underside of rocks in the stream and remain with them until they hatch in the late spring to summer.

Conservation

Tier III Species of Greatest Conservation Need in Virginia’s Wildlife Action Plan.

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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.