Hellbender

Cryptobranchus alleganiensis

Fishermen casting out in the big, fast-flowing streams where Hellbenders live sometimes lure this gigantic, scary-looking amphibian out from under its rock shelters. Many people fear the Hellbender and say it is poisonous. Actually, it is harmless. The Hellbender is one of the largest salamanders in the world.

Look For : An enormous, grotesque, brown or grayish aquatic salamander with dark spotting above, folds of skin on its sides, and a large, flattened head.

Length : 12-30".

Habitat : Under rocks and debris in rivers and large streams.

Range : New York and southwest to Missouri.