Long-tailed Salamander

Eurycea longicauda

Description

Only found in extreme northeast Mississippi. Inhabits rocky streamsides and entrances to caves (Powell et al., 2016). Slightly longer than Eurycea guttolineata (Three-lined Salamander), generally with a darker yellow-orange hue and darker sides. Many black spots on sides and black barring on tail.

Adult Long-tailed Salamander, Walker Co. (GA)

Identifying Traits

  • Yellow/yellow-orange body
  • Dark spots on sides as well as dark bars on tail (separates from cave salamander)
  • No middorsal line (separates form Three-lined Salamander)

Subspecies Present:

Eastern Long-tailed Salamander (Euycea longicauda longicauda)

Habitat

Rocky, often sloped streamsides, cave openings, sometimes ponds (Powell et al., 2016)

Range

Behavior

Generally utilizes natural structures like rocks and logs for shelter

Diet

Various small invertebrates

Young post-metamorph from a suburban streamside, St. Louis Co. (MO)
Adult Long-tailed Salamander, © Kevin Hutcheson
Adult Long-tailed Salamander, Campbell Co. (TN), © Bryce Wade