Species Reptiles & AmphibiansMudpuppy

Mudpuppy

Necturus maculosus

UncommonReptile & Amphibian
Illustration of Mudpuppy (Necturus maculosus)

The Mudpuppy is a fully aquatic, permanently neotenic salamander that keeps its bushy red gills throughout life. Despite its name, it does not bark. It is active year-round, even under ice in winter.

Habitat
Lakes, rivers, and streams with rocky bottoms and abundant cover
Diet
Crayfish, insects, fish, and worms
How common
Uncommon

Best time to see a Mudpuppy

The best time to see a Mudpuppy is January–July, when about 67% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 975 research-grade iNaturalist observations.

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Recent Mudpuppy sightings near you

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

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