A massive salamander up to 13 inches. Adults can climb trees (unusual among salamanders). One of the few salamanders that can vocalize.

Also called: Pacific Giant Salamander, Coastal Giant Salamander

Native status: Native to Pacific Northwest

§ Quick facts

SizeTotal length 17–34 cm
Weight25–100 g
LifespanWild 15–22 years
OrderCaudata
FamilyDicamptodontidae

§ Encyclopedia

The Pacific giant salamanders are members of the genus Dicamptodon. They are large salamanders endemic to the Pacific Northwest in North America. They are included in the family Ambystomatidae, or alternatively, in their own monogeneric family Dicamptodontidae.

Source: Wikipedia — Pacific giant salamander Licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

§ Identification

Field marks. Massive brown-gray salamander with reticulated pattern; large head; muscular tail.

Similar species. Hellbender (different range; flat head). Other Dicamptodon species (Cope's, California; subtle differences).

Voice. Some adults squeak or bark when handled.

§ Diet & behavior

Diet. Aquatic insects, small vertebrates, smaller salamanders.

Behavior. Among the largest US salamanders. Lives in cool forest streams of Pacific Northwest; can deliver painful bite. Adults sometimes vocalize when handled — among the few salamander species with significant vocalization.

§ Range

Pacific Northwest (especially California-Oregon)

§ Habitat

Cold clear forest streams

§ Threats

Old-growth forest loss, stream sedimentation, dam construction.

§ Conservation status

According to the IUCN Red List, the pacific giant salamander is currently classified as Least Concern.

§ What helps

Support Pacific Northwest old-growth protection. Maintain forested stream buffers.

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§ Further reading

§ Sources cited

  • AmphibiaWeb
  • Oregon State University
  • IUCN Red List 2014