Salamanders, the tailed amphibians, are among the most secretive herpetofauna. They remain out of sight through most of the year. Many species are seen only during their breeding seasons when they migrate to and from their breeding ponds. Others are active throughout the year, but only at night or after heavy rains. Some species will only be seen when searched for, and even then they may prove hard to find.
Salamanders are noted for a diversity of life history patterns. Some salamander species are quick growing and short-lived. Others grow slowly but have long lives, as long as 50 years. Many salamanders have biphasic life cycles with metamorphosis between the larval ("tadpole") and adult stages. Other species, such as the Red-backed salamander, complete metamorphosis within the egg and do not have a free-living larval stage.
Habitat loss and damage, and use in research and as pets are the major threats to these organisms. NAP tracks salamanders within City of Ann Arbor park land to measure species diversity, distribution, and abundance.
You can help us monitor these cagey creatures! Learn more about our salamander survey here.
