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ODNR Division of Wildlife - Fishing - Trout Stockings
ODNR Division of Wildlife - A to Z Species Guide - Hellbender

 Hellbender

hellbender
The hellbender is the largest amphibian in Ohio. This totally aquatic salamander can occasionally attain a length of 27 inches. In spite of its formidable appearance, the hellbender is quite harmless.

This salamander is listed as endangered by the Division of Wildlife.
 

Hellbender
Cryptobranchus alleganiensis

At-a-Glance

• Length: 11.5-20 inches

• Peak Breeding Activity: August-September

• Typical Foods: crayfish, snails, minnows, insects, and worms

• Ohio Status: Endangered 
Description
Although hellbenders have functional lungs, a single gill slit is located on each side of the neck.

Habitat and Habits
Found mostly in unglaciated (south and east) Ohio, hellbenders prefer large, swift flowing streams where they hide during the day under large rocks.

Reproduction and Care of the Young
Hellbenders breed in late August or September. The female lays up to 500 eggs in a nest the male excavates under a large flat rock. Sometimes several females use the same nest. Hellbenders differ from other salamanders in that the male does not fertilize the eggs until after they have been laid. Young hellbenders hatch in two to three months and retain their gills until they are about 1 1/2 years old.

 

If you see this salamander, let us know.Contact Greg Lipps or Ralph Pfingsten