Amphibian
Pacific Giant Salamander
Dicamptodon tenebrosusAlso known as Coastal Giant Salamander
The Pacific Giant Salamander is a heavy-bodied, marbled amphibian with a broad head and strong limbs. Aquatic larvae live in cool forest streams, while transformed adults shelter in damp forest and may vocalize when disturbed.
Forest StreamLarge SalamanderMoist Forest
—observations
—countries
—peak records
Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Diet & preyAquatic insects, Crayfish, Small fish
Predators
- Trout
- Water shrews
- Garter snakes
ThreatsStream warming, sedimentation, forest removal, road building, drought, and water pollution
HabitatsCold forest streams, seeps, moist conifer forest, riparian cover, and decaying logs
Life spanLikely more than a decade; exact wild longevity remains poorly documented
Classification
- OrderCaudata
- FamilyAmbystomatidae
- GenusDicamptodon
- SpeciesDicamptodon tenebrosus
Range data is not available yet.
Interaction riskLow
- Low
- Moderate
- High
- Very high
- Why interaction risk is low
- Large adults can deliver a painful bite; never handle or place hands near the head.
- Why it is dangerous
- A large defensive adult has strong jaws and can bite hard enough to break human skin.
- How to recognize a risky encounter
- Confirm the broad head, heavy body, and irregular dark marbling without lifting the animal.
- What to do
- Never pick up or restrain the salamander; withdraw hands and let it retreat without obstruction.
Responsible observation
- Look: Search clear streams from the bank without moving cover.
- Identify: Notice the broad head and irregular dark marbling.
- Protect: Keep hands, sunscreen, and sediment out of occupied water.
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