Plethodon vandykei

Van Dyke’s Salamander

Identification/Variations: Van Dyke's Salamanders come in three basic variations. They come in a solid yellow color which is know as a light phase. The dark phase appears above in the center photo and shows dark markings on the side. They also have a rose phase which is Unlike the Dunn's salamander, the Western Red-Backed Salamander does not have its dorsal colors bleed onto its sides and the tip of the tail is not black.

Range/Habitat: This salamanders are active when conditions are moist and above freezing. They are nocturnal, but can be found under logs and rocks near small waterfalls and creeks. They are found in the hills of southwest Washington and around the Olympic Mountains. They are also found in the southern Cascade Mountains of Washington.

Notes: This salamander is endemic to the state of Washington. Its habitat is similar to that of the Dunn's Salamander, but the two can only be found together in southwest Washington.

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