Identification
As
its name implies, this large, thin species is named for its very long tail.
Longtail Salamanders vary in color from yellow to orange-red or red, and are
marked by conspicuous dark herringbone or “dumbbell” patterns on
the sides that sometimes form dark stripes on the tail. They generally reach
lengths of 10-15.9 cm (4-6.25 in) and have 13-14 grooves along the sides of
the body (costal grooves).
Distribution and Status
The range of the Longtail Salamander extends from southern New York and northern New Jersey southwest through southern Illinois, southeastern Missouri, as well as western Tennessee. The Longtail Salamander intergrades with the Dark-sided Salamander in Illinois and southeatern Missouri. Within the Midwest the Longtail Salamander is found in Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, and Missouri.
Ecology
Longtail Salamanders can be found near streams or around caves, where they seek shelter under rocks, rotting logs, or in shale banks. They are often found in groups, and as such are considered by researchers to be nonterritorial.
Threats and Management Issues
Although Longtail Salamanders are considered fairly common throughout their
range, populations are affected by strip mining practices, particularly in the
eastern parts of their range.
Resources
General reference guides
and websites.
Reference guides and websites specific to Amphibians.
Links to more information on the Longtail Salamander outside the Herp Center
Illinois Natural History Survey
New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife
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