Fact File
Scientific Name: Eurycea cirrigera
Classification: Amphibian
Size: Up to 5 inches
Distribution: This species occurs south of an east/west line running from the border of Albemarle and Greene counties across the entire state. They can be found under cover along the banks of forested streams and seeps. During the summer, it is not uncommon to find them dispersed into the forested floodplains of those streams.
Identifying Characteristics
Similar in appearance to the Northern Two-lined Salamander, except in the Southern Two-lined Salamander, the stripes extend more than half way down the tail before they break into separate shorter lines. The belly is light yellow and translucent.
Did You Know?
The genus Eurycea is native only to North America.
Role in the Web of Life
Two-lined Salamanders are nocturnal predators foraging on a variety of small invertebrates. They mate from fall through spring, when females lay white-colored eggs on the underside of rocks in streams. Females remain with the eggs until they hatch. Larvae are aquatic and consume small aquatic invertebrates until they metamorphose in late summer.
Conservation
Species appears to be secure in Virginia.
Last updated: February 22, 2021