Mudpuppy

Necturus maculosus

Along the bottoms of lakes and streams, in places where rocks and logs are piled together, the Mudpuppy wanders in search of crayfishes and other aquatic -- water-dwelling -- creatures for food. Active at night and even in winter, when they move to deeper water, Mudpuppies are an impressive sight and worthy of a special search.

Look For : A very large, brown to grayish, aquatic salamander with dark spots on its back and sides. Gills obvious.

Length : 8-17".

Habitat : Strictly aquatic: rivers, lakes, and streams.

Range : Eastern U.S. and southeastern Canada.