EXPLORE MORE:

Long-tailed Salamander Sightings Remain Rare in New Jersey

By Jennifer Correa-Kruegel, Warren County Naturalist

May 21, 2025

long-tail salamander — The elusive long-tailed salamander (Eurycea longicauda) is listed as a threatened species in New Jersey due to habitat loss. Photo by Jennifer Correa-Kruegel.

The long-tailed salamander (Eurycea longicauda), a state-listed threatened species since 1979, is rarely seen in New Jersey due to the loss of its natural habitat. Sightings remain uncommon even for seasoned herpetologists and nature observers.

salamander on grass — The completely lungless salamander breathes through its skin. Photo by Jennifer Correa-Kruegel.

In more than twenty years of flipping over rocks and logs, this was only the third time for our resident naturalist to come across one. Luckily, a smartphone was on hand to document the find.

This species, part of the brook salamander genus Eurycea, prefers slow-moving streams, ponds, wetlands and cave environments — habitats increasingly fragmented by development. Its long, slender tail comprises about two-thirds of its body length. Coloration ranges from brown to red, always with yellowish undertones.

Long-tailed salamanders feed on a variety of invertebrates found in damp, hidden areas. This lungless species breathes entirely through its skin.

Amphibians like the long-tailed salamander serve as indicators of the health of an ecosystem. Their skin-based respiration make them very sensitive to environmental changes in their habitat, such as pollution and other habitat disruptions.

The species, listed as threatened in New Jersey since 1979, relies on moist, undisturbed habitats and breathes entirely through its skin. Photo by Jennifer Correa-Kruegel.

Respectful exploration of long-tailed salamander’s sensitive habitats is critical to conservation. Logs and rocks should always be returned to their original position after inspection, and wildlife should never be removed from its natural setting.

Fun Facts:

Long-tailed salamanders are a threatened species in NJ.
Coloration can vary from yellow to brown to red but always has yellowish undertones.
This species is completely lungless and sensitive to environmental changes.

Jennifer Correa-Kruegel, Warren County Naturalist

Jennifer has a Masters in Parks and Resource Management from Slippery Rock University. She worked as a Park Naturalist for Hunterdon County Park System from 2003-2006 and then at the NJSOC full-time from 2006 - 2020, starting as the Program Coordinator and evolving to an Environmental Educator. Jen is a New Jersey native and has lived in Warren County with her family since 2004. She is excited to be offering programs to this community she has grown to love.