Named for the two rows of yellow and orange spots speckled along their black backs, spotted salamanders are large members of the mole salamander family. On average, they measure about 18 cm (7 in.), but they can reach lengths up to 23 cm (9 in.) long!
Common in the forests of the eastern United States and eastern Canada, spotted salamanders make their homes in areas that are close to ponds and vernal pools. But despite their thriving populations, the dark amphibians are difficult to find. Adults spend most of their day hiding underground or beneath rocks and logs. Venturing out from their hiding spots at night to hunt, they eat just about anything they can catch and swallow, including worms, spiders, insects, and slugs.
When threatened, spotted salamanders secrete a mild sticky toxin from their backs and tails that dissuades predators such as skunks, raccoons, turtles, chipmunks, squirrels, opossums, and snakes from eating them.
Rumor has it, there will be a Chance of seeing one or two as they begin to come out of hibernation at #cranberrylakepreserve as we prepare for #passover in just over a week! #nyc peeps: Register Here: https://www.explorelechlecha.org/outings-clubs.html
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