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Cave Salamander

Fact File

Scientific Name: Eurycea lucifuga

Classification: Amphibian

Size: Up to 8 inches

Identifying Characteristics

Cave Salamanders are large orange to orange-red salamanders with small black spots on the back and sides. The tail can be more than half of the total body length. The head is wider and flatter than in Long-tailed Salamanders, and the legs are longer.

Distribution:

Cave Salamanders are typically found in limestone caves along the western more montane counties. They can be found on limestone cliffs with cracks serving as retreats, or even on forest floors at some distance from caves.

Cave salamander range map

Did You Know?

Vocalization has been documented in many species of salamander including Cave Salamanders and usually coincides with defensive posturing.

Role in the Web of Life

Salamanders inhabiting the forest floor and the twilight areas of caves are nocturnal, hiding by day and foraging at night. Breeding occurs in the summer and early fall. Eggs are rarely encountered, suggesting they are deposited in deep recesses of caves. Those observed are laid singly above or in pools in fall and winter. Larvae may take more than a year to metamorphose.

Conservation

Species appear to be secure in Virginia.

Last updated: July 18, 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.