Species Reptiles & AmphibiansCave Salamander

Cave Salamander

Eurycea lucifuga

UncommonReptile & Amphibian
Illustration of Cave Salamander (Eurycea lucifuga)

The Cave Salamander is a strikingly orange, spotted salamander associated with cave entrances and rocky outcrops. Despite its name, it rarely goes deep into caves. Its long prehensile tail aids climbing on cave walls.

Habitat
Cave entrances, rocky stream banks, and limestone outcrops
Diet
Insects, spiders, and other invertebrates
How common
Uncommon

Best time to see a Cave Salamander

The best time to see a Cave Salamander is March–June, when about 60% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 5,414 research-grade iNaturalist observations.

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Recent Cave Salamander sightings near you

Live, research-grade observations from iNaturalist. Allow location to center the map on you.

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