ODNR Division of Wildlife - A to Z Species Guide - Northern Dusky Salamander

 Northern Dusky Salamander

northern dusky salamander
The most abundant and easily found of all our native salamanders, they are also one of the most difficult to catch. Duskies are alert, slippery, run swiftly, and are surprisingly good jumpers. Members of this family differ from all other salamanders in having an immovable lower jaw. The dusky must lift its head in order to open its mouth.

Northern Dusky Salamander
Desmognathus fuscus

At-a-Glance

• Family: Plethodontidae (Lungless Salamanders)

• Length: 2.5-4.5 inches

• Peak Breeding Activity: June-September

• Clutch Size: 12-36 eggs

• Incubation: 6-13 weeks

• Typical Foods: insect larvae, sow bugs, and earthworms
Description
Easily identified by the light-colored line which extends from the back corner of the eye diagonally downward to the back corner of the mouth, and by the hind legs which are conspicuously larger than the front. Coloration and body markings are extremely variable. The dusky has neither lungs or gills and so oxygen is absorbed by the skin and mouth.

Habitat and Habits
These salamanders inhabit woodland creeks, seepages, and springs.

Reproduction and Care of the Young
The northy dusky salamander lays a grape-like cluster of eggs under a rock or rotting log near water. The young mature in three to four years after hatching.