Fact File
Scientific Name: Desmognathus planiceps
Classification: Amphibian
Size: Up to 5.5 inches
Distribution: This species is found in southcentral Virginia, from Roanoke, Franklin, Floyd, Pittsylvania and Patrick counties. They occur along the banks of streams and seeps, under cover by day and emerging to forage on invertebrates at night.
Identifying Characteristics
The Flat-headed Salamander is morphologically identical to the Northern Dusky Salamander, except the head may be more broad and flat. Both are gray to brown and may have a broad brownish stripe or black spots on the back.
Did You Know?
First described in 1955, this species was synonymized a few years later and for the next 40+ years until it was resurrected as a full species in 2008.
Role in the Web of Life
Not much is known about the life history of this species. Mating occurs in the fall or spring, and females lay eggs in a recess under some type of cover object, remaining with the eggs until they hatch. Like other dusky salamanders, they forage at night on a variety of invertebrates. Reproductive ecology is most likely similar to that of the Northern Dusky Salamander.
Conservation
Species appears to be secure in Virginia.
Last updated: February 22, 2021