Cumberland Plateau Salamander

The Cumberland Plateau Salamander, Plethodon kentucki, is found only in the northern section of the Cumberland Plateau along the Tennessee-Kentucky border. It is a medium salamander (3.75 to 6.75 inches in length) has a black dorsum with small white spots that increase in size on the sides. The belly is uniformly slate gray, transitioning into a lighter chin.

Similar Species: Northern Slimy Salamanders are slightly larger and have a dark chin; spots are larger and more frequent as well. Wehrle’s Salamander is dark gray or brown with yellow spots on the sides.

Habitat: Primarily occurs in steep-sloped mature hardwood forests with sandstone or shale underneath; yet can be found in a variety of woodland habitats such as moist ravines, rock crevices, and cave entrances.

Diet: A range of invertebrates such as mites, flies, spiders, snails, beetles, and ants.

Breeding information: Adults breed during late summer through fall. Females lay 9-12 eggs in underground cavities and remain with them until they hatch. Hatchlings emerge as miniature adults without going through the larval stage.

Status in Tennessee: Listed as “In Need of Management” by TWRA. Mature hardwood habitat is vulnerable to timber harvesting.

Best places to see in Tennessee: Mature hardwood forests in the northern Cumberland Mountains.