Eastern Red-backed Salamander

Plethodon cinereus

This is the most abundant animal with bones in the Northeast woodlands. Eastern Red-backed Salamanders come in three color phases: red-striped "redback," dark-striped "leadback," and a rare, red-bodied phase. Mites, which are also abundant, are one of their most important foods.

Look For : A very common, slender, dark salamander with or without a yellowish to reddish back stripe; dark below with light spots.

Length : 2 1/2-4 1/4".

Habitat : Under stones, logs, and moist leaf litter in woods.

Range : Southeastern Canada and south to North Carolina.