Although common across the southern half of Ohio, the Southern Two-lined Salamander,
Eurycea cirrigera, is a rarity at Blue Jay Barrens. This salamander is normally found along small streams in rocky wooded areas. Perhaps the frequency of drought at this location makes it difficult for the population to persist.
The name comes from the lines running along the edge of the salamander’s back. I probably would have named it the golden-backed salamander because it’s the bright yellow-gold coloring on the back that I first notice when I encounter this species.
Salamanders are always fun to encounter. They seem so fragile that it’s a wonder they can survive any type of adversity. I’m amazed each time I find a salamander apparently thriving in this dry landscape.
I found this guy beneath a log in the dry creek bed. There seems to be enough moisture in the creek gravel to keep the underside of the log hydrated, so this is a perfect place for a salamander to wait out the drought.
Although common across the southern half of Ohio, the Southern Two-lined Salamander, Eurycea cirrigera, is a rarity at Blue Jay Barrens. This salamander is normally found along small streams in rocky wooded areas. Perhaps the frequency of drought at this location makes it difficult for the population to persist.
The name comes from the lines running along the edge of the salamander’s back. I probably would have named it the golden-backed salamander because it’s the bright yellow-gold coloring on the back that I first notice when I encounter this species.
Salamanders are always fun to encounter. They seem so fragile that it’s a wonder they can survive any type of adversity. I’m amazed each time I find a salamander apparently thriving in this dry landscape.
I found this guy beneath a log in the dry creek bed. There seems to be enough moisture in the creek gravel to keep the underside of the log hydrated, so this is a perfect place for a salamander to wait out the drought. 
