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Zigzag Salamander
Plethodon d. dorsalis
Image by Jim Horton
Description
Small, slender, short legged salamander. 15-17 costal grooves present along sides. Two color morphs. One has a wide reddish, orange, or tan zigzag stripe along the back to base of tail. Sides and limbs are dark gray with light speckling. The other (leadback phase) is uniformly dark gray with no stripes. Ventral is dark grey with light speckling. An all red color variation may occur occasionally.
Stats
Size
2 ½ – 4 inches
Status
Common
Similar Species
Ravine and Redback salamanders.
Diet
Invertebrates.
Habitat
Inhabits moist woodland areas with undisturbed ground cover.
Reproduction
Breeding takes place in late fall to early spring. Female lays eggs in spring. Eggs are laid on land in a rotting log. Young will emerge as tiny adults (there is no larval stage).
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