Blue ridge dusky salamander

The Blue ridge dusky salamander is classified as Least Concern. Does not qualify for a more at risk category. Widespread and abundant taxa are included in this category.

The Blue Ridge Dusky Salamander (Desmognathus orestes) is a species of salamander in the Plethodontidae family. It is endemic to the United States. Its natural habitats are temperate forests, rivers, intermittent rivers, freshwater springs, and rocky areas. More

and the Blue Ridge dusky salamander is found in the northeastern corner of Tennessee. Photo ©Terry Hibbitts NORTHERN DUSKY SALAMANDER Desmognathus fuscus Photo ©Stephen G. More

Blue Ridge dusky salamanders are found furthest north and hybridize with Carolina mountain dusky salamanders at some locations where the two species come into contact. Individuals of all three species may be found along streams, in seepage areas, and on wet rock faces. More

Blue Ridge dusky salamanders are found associated with wet rock faces, seepages, and forest-floor habitats in the vicinity of streams and seeps (Organ, 1961a; Martof and Rose, 1963; Tilley, 1997). Adults are nocturnal, spending the day under cover objects. More