Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Hi. I live in eastern Massachusetts and as I was moving a pile of rotting firewood, I discovered several red backed salamanders. However I found one (about the same size) that did not have a red back. Its back was dark, and it sides were a grainy bluish color. Perhaps it was a female red backed? I would appreciate any input. Salamanders are so rare in our area these days, it's just thrilling to see just one!

There are several color phases of the red-back salamander(Plethodon cinereus). What you most likely found was the lead-back color phase. It`s actually rather common..

Redbacks can be quite variable. Here's what a "Leadback" phase I found in Ohio last year looked like:

Third Eye