Dicamptodon copei

Cope’s Giant Salamander

Identification/Variations: Only acknowledged as an independent species within the last 35 years, this salamander was formerly thought to be the Pacific Giant Salamander. While similar in appearance, Cope's Giant Salamander is smaller, slimmer, and has shorter legs. Identification may be difficult in areas where both Pacific and Cope's Giant Salamanders are found.

Range/Habitat: This salamander is found in cold rocky coastal streams in northwest Oregon and southwest Washington. They range north to the Olympic Mountains, and south to the Columbia River.

Notes: Don't expect to find a terrestrial form of this animal as Cope's Giant Salamander typically spends its entire life in the water and never transforms out of its aquatic stage. When these salamanders do transform they look much like a terrestrial Pacific Giant Salamander, but they are less heavy and may be darker in color.