Salamander on the move

Spotted salamanders (Ambystoma maculatum) are charismatic amphibians that inhabit the diverse ecosystems of Michigan, adding to the state's rich biological diversity. These secretive creatures, known for their striking black bodies adorned with vibrant yellow spots, lead fascinating lives hidden beneath the forest floor. Preferring moist woodlands with ample leaf litter and seasonal vernal pools, spotted salamanders emerge from their burrows during the spring rains to embark on their annual breeding migrations. These migrations, often triggered by specific environmental cues, lead them to ancestral breeding sites where they engage in elaborate courtship rituals before depositing their eggs in gelatinous masses. Despite their inconspicuous nature, spotted salamanders play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance as both predators and prey, consuming small invertebrates while serving as a vital food source for larger predators. Their presence serves as a barometer for ecosystem health, making their conservation a priority in Michigan's conservation efforts.