Appalachian Salamander Survey
Temperate Forest
Amphibians
Intermediate
USA — Great Smoky Mountains
March to May
Overview
The salamander capital of the world with 30+ species in a single mountain range.
Equipment
- Headlamp
- Rubber boots
- Specimen containers
- Moisture towels
Safety Notes
- Wash hands before handling — lotions harm amphibian skin
- Watch for copperheads under rocks
Identification Tips
1
Turn logs and rocks gently — replace exactly as found
2
Seepage areas and stream banks are hotspots
3
Red-cheeked salamanders are found only above 1,500m
Species Checklist
| Species | Likelihood | Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Jordan's Salamander | common | Under rotting logs above 1,200m |
| Hellbender | rare | Fast-flowing streams with flat rocks |
| Pygmy Salamander | uncommon | High-elevation spruce-fir |
| Red Salamander | common | Spring seepages |