Salamander and Newt Identification Keys

This identification key uses questions and answers to help identify the actual species of salamander or newt encountered. The questions are simplistic, you should follow the result link to the description page for the frog or toad species and see if it fits. Also check the species description page for similar species, as there may be additional keys useful in distinguishing a particular species from similar species.

This key does not cover amphibian larvae. That key still needs to be written but will be separate.

At this time, there either are no or few images or illustrations. Photographs for this identification guide that show identification key features will hopefully be more complete by 2010, depending upon how often I get to herp in suitable habitat before the summer heat drives salamanders into hiding.

1. Costal Grooves - The Starting Point

Costal grooves are a set of vertical grooves (appear as lines) that run from along the sides of the salamander between the front and rear legs.

Does the Salamander or Newt have costal grooves?

Yes Goto 2	No Goto 7

 

2. Nasolabial Groove

The nasolabial groove is a small groove that runs from the nostril to the edge of the upper lip of Lungless Salamanders. It may be difficult to see on small salamanders, use a magnifying glass if necessary but be careful not to burn the specimen.

Does the salamander have a nasolabial groove?

yes Goto 3	No Goto 6

 

3. Lungless Salamanders

You probably have a Lungless Salamander. Four species occur in Shasta County. Is the salamander really skinny, almost wormlike, with extremely small legs?

Yes Goto California Slender Salamander	No Goto 4

 

4. Not Slender

Does the salamander have a yellow, greenish-yellow, or orange colored sleeve on all four legs extending almost to the elbow/knee joint?

Yes Goto Oregon Ensatina (intergrade)	No Goto 5

 

5. Not Ensatina

Does the salamander have webbing between the toes?

Yes Goto Shasta Salamander	No Goto Shasta Black Salamander

 

6. Mole and Giant Salamanders

Does the salamander have a distinctive yellow stripe down the back and yellow spots on the head?

Yes Goto Southern Long-toed Salamander	No Goto Coastal Giant Salamander

 

7. Pacific Newts

You probably have a Pacific Newt. Two species occur in Shasta County. Is the lower eyelid of the newt dark or light?

Dark Goto Rough-skinned Newt	Light Goto Sierra Newt