Description

Mud salamanders are large, often thick-bodied stream-dwelling amphibians found in coastal and central Mississippi. Disjunct populations exist in northeast Mississippi as well (Powell et al., 2016). They are reddish or orange with round black dots. Mud Salamanders are usually found in muddy seepages or swamps.

Identifying Traits

• Large orange-red body
• Round black dots
• Blunt, round head

Subspecies present:

Gulf Coast Mud Salamander (Pseudotriton montanus flavissimus)

Habitat

Muddy or mucky seepages, swamps, ponds

Behavior

Generally utilizes natural structures like rocks and logs for shelter

Diet

Various small invertebrates