Mudpuppy

Large aquatic salamander with maroon red, feathery external gills. Dark brown, rust, or grayish with dark spots on body. Dark streak runs through the eye. Body is round and blunt head. Has four toes on all four feet. Young have wide light stripes from head to the tail. This species retains its gills throughout it life. Spends much of its time along the bottom of lakes and streams. Mainly nocturnal but may be active in muddy water during daylight. They feed heavily in winter months.