Mole Salamander

Ambystoma talpoideum

This species has a confusing name -- it is not only a member of the mole salamander family, it is the Mole Salamander. Mole Salamanders, like the moles they are named for, are chunky and dark and are very good burrowers. Look for them from December to February.

Look For : A large, gray to dark brown salamander with an unusually large head and legs; flecked with light blue; bluish-gray below.

Length : 3-4 3/4".

Habitat : Deciduous and pine woodlands and swamps.

Range : Eastern Oklahoma and Texas, east to South Carolina.