Four-toed Salamander

Hemidactylium scutatum

Four-toed Salamander. Photo:John Mitchell

This little salamander, reaching no more than 10 centimetres or so, can be found in sporadic populations across eastern Canada. It is easily recognized by its glossy white belly speckled with black dots, and its four-toed hind feet, a unique characteristic among all canadian salamanders except the mudpuppy. The base of its tail is prominently constricted, a feature that aids in shedding its tail when caught (this phenomenon is called autotomy).

Distribution of Four-toed Salamander in Canada