Common Illinois Salamanders

Illinois' wetland and woodland habitats offer a suitable home for 20 species of salamander. Urban development and clearing of natural habitats for farm land has damaged the population numbers of many species. Only around eight of the native species are found in large areas of the state and have solid population numbers.

  1. Small-Mouthed Salamander

    • The small-mouthed salamander is one of Illinois' most widespread and common salamander species. It is found in all but the most northern counties in the state where it is abundant in some areas. It is a medium-sized species that grows to just over 6 inches and has black coloring with gray spots.

    Spotted Salamander

    • The spotted salamander lives in the southern and eastern regions of the state and is locally abundant in several counties. It is a thick-bodied species that grows over 7 inches in length. It has a black back with a gray underbelly and yellow spots.

    Lesser Siren

    • The lesser siren is common in the south of the state and is found in central Illinois as well. The secretive, fully aquatic lifestyle of this species means it may be more common than thought. It is a long, slender species that grows to a foot in length and has no rear limbs.

    Tiger Salamander

    • The tiger salamander is found throughout the state and is most common in non-developed natural areas. It grows to over a foot in length and is the state's largest terrestrial salamander. The species' black and orange coloration gives it its name.

    Long-Tailed Salamander

    • The long-tailed salamander is abundant in the southern half of the state. It grows to just over 6 inches in length and ranges in color from orange to yellow with scattered black blotches.

    Northern Slimy Salamander

    • The northern slimy is the most common woodland salamander in southern Illinois and is present in all but the northern quarter of the state. It grows to just over 6 inches in length. The salamander is dark black on the back with a gray underbelly.

    Mudpuppy

    • The mudpuppy is a large, fully aquatic salamander that is found statewide and is common in certain areas. It grows to over a foot in length and has a broad body. The salamander is gray-brown in color with dense black spotted patterning.