Slimy Salamander

(Plethodon glutinosus)

Slimy salamanders are sprinkled with small white flecks on their back and sides. ©Mike Marchand photo

Slimy salamander. ©USGS/John D. Willson photo

NH Conservation Status: Not known.

State Rank Status: Reported historically but unsure if it still exists in the state or if the report represented a native population.

Distribution: Reported historically from one town (Rindge) in New Hampshire but it is not known whether the report represented a native population and if so, whether the population still exists.

Description: A medium to large (4.5-7 inch) black salamander with white or silvery speckles sprinkled across the back and sides. Slimy salamanders usually have a lighter belly than the rest of their body.

Commonly Confused Species: Leadback phase of the redback salamander; dusky salamander; Jefferson salamander.

Habitat: Terrestrial, found on moist woodland hillsides, floodplains, or ravines under logs, leaf litter, stones, or in rock crevices.   

Life History: Ten to 20 eggs are attached to the roof of an underground cavity or in rock crevices or rotting logs. Hibernates underground.

Conservation Threats: Loss of habitat.

Distribution map: Click here for a map showing the towns where this species is reported to occur in NH