The Hellbender is North America's largest salamander, reaching up to 2.5 feet. It absorbs oxygen through the folds of its wrinkled skin. Once widespread in Appalachian streams, it is now severely threatened.
Habitat
Clear, cold, fast-moving streams with large flat rocks
Diet
Crayfish and fish
How common
Rare
Best time to see a Hellbender
The best time to see a Hellbender is May–August, when about 61% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 473 research-grade iNaturalist observations.
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