Pseudotriton ruber (State Status: S3; vulnerable)
Description
Red Salamanders are large, often thick-bodied stream-dwelling amphibians found throughout central and coastal Mississippi, as well as in the northeast. Disjunct populations exist in northeast Mississippi as well (Powell et al., 2016). They are reddish or orange with many irregularly shaped black spots. P. r. ruber is found only in northeast Mississippi, and is brighter in color with bolder spotting (see below photo). P. r. vioscai can be found in coastal and southern parts of the state and is duller in color, often with a darker head.
Identifying Traits
- Large red or orange body
- Thick coverage of irregularly shaped black dots (separates from mud salamander).
- Narrower head than P. montanus
Subspecies present:
- Northern Red Salamander (Pseudotriton ruber ruber)
- Southern Red Salamander (Pseudotriton ruber vioscai)
Habitat
Wooded drainages or clean-water streams, sometimes found away from water

Behavior
Generally utilizes natural structures like rocks and logs for shelter
Diet
Various small invertebrates