Coeur d'Alene Salamander

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Photo courtesy of Digital Atlas of Idaho

(Plethodon idahoensis)

Habitat and Biology:
Coeur d'Alene salamanders live in cool, damp habitats such as the spray zone of waterfalls and in springs and moist rocky areas. They usually only come above ground at nights when the temperature is above 45 degrees F. (7 degrees C.). Females lay eggs undergound and juvenile salamanders hatch from these eggs in mid-September. Coeur d'Alene salamanders eat aquatic insects and other invertebrates.

Management:
Many Coeur d'Alene salamanders are isolated by several miles from other populations. Roads, timber harvest or other vegetation management can further isolate populations and fragment habitat. Removing rock from salamander habitats can also be detrimental to Coeur d'Alene salamanders. A draft conservation strategy written by several wildlife management agencies gives management guidance for Coeur d'Alene salamanders.

Interesting Facts:

• North Idaho, NW Montana and SE British Columbia are the only places this species lives.
• The stripe on the back of a Coeur d'Alene salamander can be greenish-yellow, orange or red.
• This salamander has slightly webbed, very short toes.

Learn more about the Coeur d'Alene salamander:

• Digital Atlas of Idaho

 

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