Blue-spotted Salamander

Ambystoma laterale
Range: The east coast of North America to the
great lakes. They can be found as far north as
James Bay Ontario.

Habitat: Forests, typically found under rotting

leaves or logs. They prefer moist woodlands with
sandy soil.

Diet: Invertebrates

Lifespan: They can live for 25 years in the wild.

Description: Blue-spotted salamander are 3-5 inches long and are covered in blue flecks.

Breeding: Breeding takes place in early spring. Females lay a clutches of eggs attached to
vegetation near the surface of the water in spring vernal pools. Since they lay their eggs in
vernal pools, the eggs have more protection from predators, however they are at risk of the
pools drying up before the tadpoles have gone through metamorphosis. It typically takes 3-4
months for metamorphosis to be complete.

Behavior/Adaptations: In winter, they hibernate belwo the frost line.

Predators: Birds, snakes, lizards, raccoons, skunks, etc.

Conservation: They are not considered threatened, but is considered a bio-indicator along
with other amphibians due to their susceptibility to environmental toxins that can be easily
absorbed through their permeable skin.

Interesting Facts:

Information taken from the following sources:

https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/reptiles_amphibians/salamanders-blue_spotted.html
https://animaldiversity.org/accounts/Ambystoma_laterale/