Holbrook's Southern Dusky Salamander (Desmognathus auriculatus)

The Holbrook's Southern Dusky Salamander is endemic to the southeastern United States. Thriving in swampy areas with tannic waters near ponds, streams, or river flood plains, these creatures follow a largely nocturnal lifestyle. 

These lungless salamanders have stout bodies, relatively larger back legs, and a row of white spots lining each side of their bodies. Their color varies, ranging from dark brown to black, often accompanied by white-flecked undersides and lighter patches running down their backs. 

Since they look so similar to Northern and Spotted Duskies, you can only tell them apart by where they live.