Taxonomy:
Common Names by Region:
Size: Adult Jefferson’s Salamanders typically measure between 4.5 to 7.0 inches (11.5 to 18 cm) in length.
Coloration: They possess a dark, slate-gray to brownish body with lighter gray or blue flecks, particularly along the sides and limbs.
Body Shape: This species has a long, slender body with a broad head. The limbs are relatively long and thin compared to other salamanders.
Tail: The tail is laterally compressed and makes up about half of the salamander’s total length.
Distinguishing Features: Unlike some other salamanders, Jefferson’s Salamander has fewer and less pronounced costal grooves along the sides.
Geographical Distribution: Jefferson’s Salamander is primarily found in the northeastern United States and adjacent areas in southeastern Canada.
United States Range: Populations are concentrated in states such as New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio, West Virginia, and Massachusetts.
Canada Range: It is predominantly found in southern Ontario.
Habitat: Prefers deciduous or mixed woodlands with vernal pools or other temporary wetlands that are crucial for breeding.
Diet:
Breeding Season: Jefferson’s Salamander breeds in early spring, often immediately after the first warm rains of the season, typically from February to April.
Mating Behavior: Males arrive at breeding pools before females and engage in a courtship display that involves the release of pheromones.
Breeding Habitat: Breeding occurs in temporary pools, known as vernal pools, which lack fish predators.
Egg Development: The eggs hatch after about four weeks, depending on the water temperature.
Egg Laying: Females lay clusters of eggs, usually attaching them to submerged vegetation or sticks within the vernal pools.
Egg Stage: Eggs are deposited in clusters and hatch into larvae within a few weeks.
Larval Stage: The aquatic larval stage lasts for several months. Larvae undergo metamorphosis in late summer, developing lungs and losing their gills as they transition to a terrestrial lifestyle.
Juvenile Stage: After metamorphosis, juveniles leave the water and live terrestrially, often staying hidden in moist, protected environments.
Adult Stage: Adults reach sexual maturity at around 2 to 3 years of age and return to their natal pools to breed. Outside of the breeding season, they are primarily nocturnal and remain hidden in moist, forested habitats.
Lifespan: In the wild, Jefferson’s Salamanders can live up to 10 years, although many do not reach this age due to predation and environmental factors.