About Plethodon shermani Stejneger, 1906
Size Range
Plethodon shermani, commonly called the red-legged salamander, typically ranges from 85 to 185 millimeters in total length.
General Body Coloration
Individuals are defined by slate-grey to bluish-black body coloration, paired with red coloring on the dorsal side of the legs.
Population Color Variation
Populations in the Unicoi Mountains rarely have red leg coloration, and instead have white spotting along their sides.
Male Secondary Sexual Traits
Sexually active males have prominent, rounded mental glands.
Juvenile Coloration
Young juvenile individuals may have paired red spots running along the back.
Breeding Type
This species is a terrestrial breeder.
Habitat Type
Red-legged salamanders occupy cool, moderately humid high-elevation forests, including the Unicoi Mountains, Nantahala Mountains, and southern Appalachian Mountains.
Geographic Distribution
While most of the species' population is concentrated in North Carolina, it is also found in northern Georgia and southeast Tennessee.
Conservation Status
Because it is native to fewer than five known regions, the species is classified as vulnerable to extinction.
Behavior
During the day, this salamander shelters under logs or rocks, and forages on the forest floor at night.
