Salamanders and Newts of South Dakota
South Dakota is only home to 3 species of salamanders from 2 different families. Not that great of a state to look for salamanders in sadly.
Ambystomatidae – Mole Salamander Family
The Barred Tiger Salamander or Western Tiger Salamander is the largest salamander in the state, capable of reaching a foot long. It is found throughout the state. It has dark bars that run down its body that makes it identifiable.
Eastern Tiger Salamander (Ambystoma tigrinum)
The Eastern Tiger Salamander is found in the far southeastern part of the state. They vary in color from black to gray, can have spots or blotches but not really solid bars like the Barred Tiger Salamander.
Proteidae
The Mudpuppy is a completely aquatic species of salamander. They keep their gills throughout their life. The Mudpuppy has not been seen in South Dakota in 30 years. They were found in permanent bodies of water in the northeastern corner of the state. You should report sightings of them.
