7 Fun Facts About Smoky Mountain Salamanders
One of the most unique animals in the Smoky Mountains is the salamander. These creatures live near streams and rivers in the Smokies, and you’re most likely to see them crawling around rocks next to the water. Smoky Mountain salamanders are small but fascinating, and there are dozens of different species living in the area! Here are some fun facts you may not know about these interesting creatures:
1. The Smoky Mountains are the “Salamander Capital of the World.”
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including birds, mammals, reptiles, and amphibians. Smoky Mountain salamanders are the largest group of amphibians in the national park, with more than 30 different species calling the area home. Because of the large number of salamanders that live here, the Smoky Mountains have become known as the “Salamander Capital of the World.”
2. Smoky Mountain salamanders don’t have vocal cords.
Unlike most animals in the Smokies, Smoky Mountain salamanders don’t have vocal cords. Instead, these creatures talk to one another through clicks and snaps. They can also communicate danger with loud exhales. Other ways salamanders can communicate include sense of touch and chemical signals. This ability to communicate without sound is useful because it makes it more difficult for predators to find them.
3. They can regenerate limbs and organs.
One of the most interesting facts about Smoky Mountain salamanders is that they can regenerate limbs and organs. This increases their chances of surviving attacks from predators like turtles, snakes, and raccoons. If a salamander is injured or loses a limb, it can heal itself and even fully regenerate the missing limb. The same is true for vital organs such as the brain, heart, and lung. Younger salamanders can heal and regenerate body parts much more quickly than older salamanders.
4. Smoky Mountain salamanders are more active in lower temperatures.
You are more likely to see Smoky Mountain salamanders in colder weather. This is because these creatures are more active when the temperatures are lower. While you may still be able to spot them in the summer snoozing under rocks, you’re more likely to see them scurrying around on the ground in the winter.
5. Some species can breathe through their skin.
Because salamanders are born in the water, they have gills so they can breathe underwater. Species that live on land will later develop lungs, and they may lose their gills as they age. Some species of Smoky Mountain salamanders don’t have gills or lungs at all. Instead, they “breathe” through their skin. Blood vessels spread along their skin exchange gases with the air, providing them with the oxygen they need to survive.
6. Smoky Mountain salamanders are not lizards.
It’s easy to confuse Smoky Mountain salamanders with lizards. In fact, these animals are often referred to as “spring lizards.” However, salamanders and lizards are actually very different. Lizards are reptiles and have scales, while salamanders are amphibians and do not have scales. Instead, salamanders are shiny and feel slimy. However tempting it may be, though, it’s important that you do not touch these animals. The oils on your hands can harm their absorbent skin, so admire them from a respectful distance.
7. These creatures are carnivores.
You probably didn’t know that Smoky Mountain salamanders are carnivores. These animals eat a variety of small invertebrates, such as worms, slugs, centipedes, spiders, dragonflies, frog eggs, insect eggs, etc. Salamanders are a lot like frogs in how they catch their food. They extend their long tongues from a safe striking distance to quickly snatch prey and bring it to their mouths. Unlike most frogs, these amphibians have small teeth to chew their food.
Where to Spot Smoky Mountain Salamanders
You will often find Smoky Mountain salamanders near the water, especially around rocks. It’s common to spot them on hiking trails with waterfalls and near rivers with lots of rocks, such as the Pigeon River. If you’re lucky, you may even get to see them during your white water rafting trip! When looking for salamanders, make sure you do not pick up or move the rocks, as this can harm these small creatures and disturb their home.
Are you interested in learning more about Smoky Mountain wildlife? Check out this guide to animals in the Smoky Mountains and where to find them!
