Description

The Western Redback Salamander is a long slender dark brown or black salamander with a red, yellow, green or tan stripe. This stripe is usually well defined and even-edged although it is absent in some individuals. A few individuals lack the dark colouation and are all red, yellow, green or tan. The belly has salt and pepper flecking.

Confusing Species

The Redback Salamander is almost identical but has black and white mottling on the belly rather than flecking. It is restricted to eastern North America. The Coeur d'Alene salamander is also very similar but has a scallop-edged stripe and a yellow throat.

Distribution

In Canada the Western Redback Salamander is found on Vancouver Island and the extreme southwestern mainland of British Columbia. The distribution continues south along the western edge of Oregon and Washington.

Habitat

The Western Redback Salamander is found in a variety of moist habitats within its range including rock slides, ravines, and forests. It ranges from near sea level up to 1,250 m.

Reproduction

Breeding occurs in November and December and eggs are laid in April or May. About 10 eggs are laid under cover on land. Hatchlings resemble the parents and mature in about two years.

Natural history

This is a terrestrial salamander that is commonly found under stones, logs and debris on the forest floor. It lives below ground during dry periods in late summer.

Conservation Concerns

This species is considered secure.