Identification
A subspecies of the Barred Tiger Salamander, the Gray Tiger Salamander is light
olive to dark brown in color, and has a pattern of scattered dark brown or black
specks on its back and sides.
Distribution and Status
The Gray Tiger Salamander can be found from southern Saskatchewan southeast
through Manitoba, North and South Dakota and into southwestern Minnesota. Minnesota
is the only Midwest state that is home to this subspecies.
Ecology
The Gray Tiger Salamander is able to live in a variety of habitats, and can
be found in woodlands, marshes, grasslands, farmlands, and suburbs, as well
as in drier areas. A major requirement of these habitats is their close proximity
to a suitable pond for breeding. They spend a majority of their time in burrows,
which they often dig themselves.
Threats and Management Issues
The introduction of predatory fish to breeding ponds has been shown to have
devastating effects on local salamander populations as eggs and larvae are easy
prey. In addition, many Gray Tiger Salamanders are killed on roads each year
while trying to reach their breeding ponds. The species does however respond
well to the construction of fish-free ornamental ponds or stock ponds, which
can create new breeding sites.
Resources
General reference guides
and websites.
Reference guides and websites specific to Amphibians.
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