How to Spot a Mudpuppy

The Mudpuppy, also known as a Waterdog, is a large salamander found in the eastern part of North America. Since this salamander hides during the day, you'll need to follow these steps to know where to look for a Mudpuppy and how to recognize one.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Look for the Mudpuppy in the eastern United States and in southeastern Canada. They live southward to parts of Georgia and westward to parts of North Dakota. Typically, the Mudpuppy lives west of the Appalachian Mountains.

2. Find the aquatic Mudpuppy in its preferred habitats. The Mudpuppy lives in a variety of water habitats including rivers, streams, ponds and lakes. They sometimes like to live in muddy and heavily vegetated waters and near large rocks.

3. Marvel at the Mudpuppy's size. The Mudpuppy is a very large salamander measuring between 8 and 17 inches in length. Males and females are similar in size.

4. Observe the appearance of a Mudpuppy. This salamander has gray to rust brown colored upper parts and pale gray underparts. They may also have round blue colored spots on their bodies. Mudpuppies also have a flat head, a flat tail, a dark eye stripe and four toes on their feet. Mudpuppies of all ages have feathery gills located on the sides of their heads. These gills can have a maroon color and the Mudpuppy uses the gills for breathing.

Tips & Warnings

• Mudpuppies are most active during the nighttime hours. During the day, they like to hide underneath large rocks or among vegetation.