Description: This salamander has 12 to 13 costal grooves and the tail has a swollen appearance with a constriction at its base. Colouration is uniform yellowish to reddish brown with fine black speckling above and pale grey or whitish underparts. These salamanders are the most active during the spring and autumn when the ground is damp from rain or snow melt. They may remain immobile when discovered. However, when harassed they stand up on their legs, arch their back and tail and slap their tail towards the disturbance. The tail drips with a milky secretion that sometimes is propelled towards the enemy. They may also produce a hissing sound when disturbed.

Description: Females brood the eggs. These salamanders grow very quickly for 2-3 years. This growth slows dramatically once sexual maturity is attained.

Adult habitat: This species is usually found in moist forests but may also be encountered in clearings. They hide under leaf litter, bark, rocks and logs. During summer dry spells they retreat underground.