Pygmy Salamander

Scientific Name: Desmognathus wrighti

Photo Credit: Todd Pierson 

The pygmy salamander is a tiny, terrestrial species marked by a distinct chevron pattern on its back and a light line from the eye to the jaw. It inhabits high-elevation spruce-fir forests in the southern Appalachians, often far from water and sometimes found on vegetation. Unlike many salamanders, it bypasses an aquatic larval stage, with young hatching as miniature adults. Eggs are laid near headwater streams or underground, and females guard them until hatching. This nocturnal species is more abundant in undisturbed habitats and is especially active during rainy nights.

Explore the full species profile, including their habitat, diet, and behavior on Herps of NC.