A short stocky salamander with a broad head — superficially mole-like. Most populations are entirely terrestrial after metamorphosis, but some retain larval features (paedomorphosis).

Also called: Mole

Native status: Native to southeastern US

§ Quick facts

SizeAdult length 8–11 cm (3.1–4.3 in)
Weight10–25 g
LifespanWild typically 8 years
OrderCaudata
FamilyAmbystomatidae

§ Encyclopedia

The mole salamanders are a group of advanced salamanders endemic to North America. The group has become famous due to the study of the axolotl in research on paedomorphosis, and the tiger salamander which is often sold as a pet, and is the official amphibian of four US states.

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

§ Identification

Field marks. Small stout salamander with broad head; dull gray or light brown back with faint mottling; whitish belly.

Similar species. Other Ambystoma species (different patterns/ranges). Marbled Salamander (banded). Dusky salamanders (more slender).

Voice. Silent.

§ Diet & behavior

Diet. Earthworms, insects, small invertebrates.

Behavior. Small stocky salamander of southeastern US. Spends most of life in damp soil and leaf litter. Migrates to vernal pools and fish-free ponds in fall and winter for breeding (vs. spring for most US Ambystoma species). Populations are part of the Ambystoma kleptogenesis complex — some populations include all-female unisexual lineages that "steal" genetic material from males of other Ambystoma species.

§ Range

Southeastern US Coastal Plain

§ Habitat

Wet pine flatwoods, cypress swamps, vernal pools

§ Threats

Wetland drainage, fire suppression altering ephemeral pond hydrology, fish introduction.

§ Conservation status

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

§ What helps

Maintain ephemeral ponds. Support longleaf pine fire regime. Don't stock fish in temporary wetlands.

Support our work More ways to help

§ Further reading

§ Sources cited

  • AmphibiaWeb
  • USGS PWRC
  • Center for North American Herpetology
  • IUCN Red List 2014