We’re slithering into #WildlifeWednesday with a feature on the northern red salamander.
Compared to our other large, red-colored salamanders the northern red stands out because of its distinctive, bright, yellow-gold iris and stout body.
Northern reds can be located under logs, moss, and rocks in and around cold, clean springs and adjacent brooks.
With the exception of a small colony reported in the vicinity of Cincinnati, these salamanders occur only in the eastern half of the state.
Although adults are usually a striking bright red with scattered black dots, old specimens are less brightly colored, often somewhat purplish.
