Photo: Dennis Paulson
Photo: Dennis Paulson
Fast Facts
Where they live
- View a map of where they live.
- Are only found in the Olympic mountains of Washington State.
- Prefer edges of clear, cold mountain streams in old growth forests.
- Can be found in spray zones of waterfalls and will come onto land on really wet nights.
Breeding
- Not much is known about the breeding of the Olympic Torrent Salamander, it is assumed to have similar breeding habits of the Columbia Torrent Salamander and Cascade Torrent Salamander.
Cool Biology Facts
- Have reduced lungs and breathe mostly though their skin
- Can live up to ten years! It takes about 5-6 years before they reach sexual maturity.
- When disturbed will roll over and show yellow undersides in an attempt to startle attacker.
Threats
- Listing is due to the fact that they are only found in one small area in the Pacific Northwest and any loss of habitat can be extremely detrimental to the species.
- Habitat loss and disturbance from logging is main threat.
- View their status on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.
Amphibians & Reptiles of Washington
Do you know where rattlesnakes live in our state? Or which salamander breathes through its skin? Explore the fascinating diversity of the 26 species of amphibians and 28 reptiles found in Washington state.
