Salamander Saturday is May 3, 2025. In celebration, meet our Spotted Salamander Ambassador!

Joining NH Audubon in 2023, our Spotted Salamander (Ambystoma maculatum) has an unusual story. Originally kept as a pet until her owner moved across the country to a habitat that wouldn’t be suitable for her, she now serves as an ambassador for amphibian conservation.

With a black body and bright yellow spots, this secretive species relies on vernal pools for breeding and is a key indicator of a healthy environment. On warm, wet evenings in the spring, salamanders leave their wooded homes to seek out these temporary wetlands to lay their eggs. This often involves crossing roads, which can lead to road mortality from vehicles. If you would like to help salamanders, stay alert and drive slowly if traveling on these early spring nights!

As an ambassador, this salamander raises awareness about habitat loss and conservation efforts. She spends much of her time burrowing through the dirt of her enclosure, sometimes hiding her entire body underneath her water dish. Come to the nature lab at the McLane Center to see if you can spot her!