Identification
Similar in appearance to the Redback Salamander, the Eastern Zigzag Salamander
is pale grey with a dark grey reticulation, and has a wavy stripe on the back
that varies somewhere between red and yellowish. The belly is colored like the
sides, often with red at the base of the legs and groin. Two color morphs can
be found in most populations, the first appears as mentioned above, while the
second is a darker variation that is medium to dark brown in coloration with
frosted greenish-gold speckles on the back. Red pigment may also mark the legs
of this color morph. Adult Eastern Zigzag Salamanders may reach lengths of 6.4-9
cm (2.5-3.5 in), and have 17-19 grooves along the sides of the body (costal
grooves).
Distribution and Status
The Eastern Zigzag salamander can be found from extreme east central and southern
Illinois and central Indiana, south through northern Alabama, east to northeastern
Tennessee as well as adjacent Virginia. Within the Midwest, the Eastern Zigzag
Salamander is found in Indiana, Illinois, and Missouri.
Ecology
The Eastern Zigzag Salamander can be found in rocky habitats, and are found
mainly under rocks in woodland hillsides. Those living in areas with abundant
limestone can be found in caves or rock crevices, retreating underground in
the heat of summer and in the cold of winter.
Threats and Management Issues
Still considered common in hardwood forests with rocky substrates, the Zigzag
Salamander’s populations are affected by deforestation and forest conversion.
They do not survive well on agricultural or urban lands.
Resources
General reference guides
and websites.
Reference guides and websites specific to Amphibians.
Links to more information on the Eastern Zigzag Salamander outside the Herp Center
Illinois Natural History Survey
Bruce Kingsbury, Director
Center for Reptile and Amphibian Conservation and Management
Science Building
Indiana-Purdue University
2101 East Coliseum Blvd.
Fort Wayne, IN 46805-1499