Aneides vagrans

Wandering Salamander

Identification/Variations: The Wandering Salamander is a medium sized woodland salamander that is typically brown with varying amounts of brass colored flecking. Young may be a rusted red color that fades as they mature. What is most helpful when identifying this salamander is to look for squared off toes and the large glands at the base of the head. 

Range/Habitat: This salamander is not found in Oregon or Washington. Instead it is found only on Vancouver Island in our area. It has a larger range in northwest California. There is some debate as to why these populations are so far apart. One theory is that the Wandering Salamander was introduced to Vancouver Island in the 1800's.

Notes: Until 1998 this salamander was thought to be included with the Clouded Salamander and has only recently been recognized as a separate species.

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