Ambystoma maculatum
Spotted Salamander /
Salamandre maculée
Description
This is large blue-black salamander with large yellow or orange spots from the head to
tail. The Spotted Salamander can grow to over 20 cm in total length, including its long
tail. This species is sometimes called the Yellow-spotted Salamander.
Confusing Species
The Jefferson Complex salamanders are
similar in shape and size, but they lack the large yellowish spots.
Distribution
The Spotted Salamander is found throughout much of Canada east of Lake Superior. Outside
of Canada, it is found across the eastern United States as far south as Louisiana.
Habitat
Deciduous or mixed forests and hillsides around ponds are the preferred habitat. Breeding
ponds tend to be shallow and without fish.
Reproduction
Breeding occurs in early spring, often while there is still ice on the ponds. Females
lay up to 250 eggs in a mass attached to submerged vegetation. The mass quickly swells
to the size and shape of a tennis ball. In one to two months the eggs hatch, at which
time the larvae are just over 1 cm in total length. It takes another two to three months
for the larvae to transform into salamanders 2.5-3.5 cm long. Males will take two to
three years to reach maturity, while females can take three to five years.
Natural History
Outside of the breeding season Spotted Salamanders tend to live underground in burrows or
under logs. During rainy nights they may be found foraging on the forest floor. They eat a
variety of insects and other invertebrates such as worms and slugs. Spotted Salamanders
can live for over 30 years in the wild.
Conservation Concerns
Spotted Salamanders are quite sensitive to the effects of acid rain. Acidification of
ponds can prevent eggs from hatching or affect the development of larvae. There is no
evidence of decline in Spotted Salamanders.
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