Fauna
Amphibian · GBIF taxon 2432009

Ringed Salamander

Ambystoma annulatum

Also known as Ringed Mole Salamander

Ringed salamanders spend nearly all of their adult lives hidden underground in burrows, emerging en masse during cool, rainy autumn nights to migrate to fishless woodland breeding pools. Females attach large, gelatinous egg masses to submerged twigs and leaf litter, with aquatic larvae overwintering before transforming the following spring or summer. Because larvae vary widely in growth rate, larger individuals frequently prey upon smaller cohorts and amphibian competitors within the same pond.

FossorialAmphibianEndemic
Ringed Salamander reference1 / 2
Licensed reference(c) John Ross, some rights reserved (CC BY-SA) · cc-by-sa
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Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Key facts
Diet & prey
  • Earthworms
  • Beetle Larvae
  • Terrestrial Snails
Predators
  • Common Garter Snake
  • Raccoon
  • Barred Owl
ThreatsHabitat fragmentation, loss of fishless breeding ponds, and road mortality
HabitatsDeciduous and mixed pine-hardwood forests near vernal pools
Life span10–20 years
Classification
  1. FamilyAmbystomatidae
  2. SpeciesAmbystoma annulatum
Range & activity
Range data is not available yet.
Safe observation
Interaction riskLow
  1. Low
  2. Moderate
  3. High
  4. Very high
Why interaction risk is low
Safe to observe at a normal distance.
What to notice
Recognized by its dark grey to black body marked with distinct, narrow yellow to cream rings that encircle the torso and tail.
Support conservation
Watch for migrating individuals crossing wet forest roads on rainy autumn nights, and never alter or drain natural fishless pools.
Responsible observation
  • Seasonal Timing: Search forested roads and vernal pool margins on heavy rainy nights from September to November.
  • Handling Precaution: Avoid handling due to skin sensitivities, or keep hands moist and free of lotions and repellents.
  • Habitat Care: Always replace turned logs and stones exactly as found to protect delicate microclimates.
Related species
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