Frosty Mountain Top

4/17/2011

The temperature dropped quickly overnight. We went from a high of 45 to a low of 19. There was a layer of frost on the trees and bushes this morning. It is starting out to be a beautiful day.

Plethdon jordani or better known as a Red-cheek Salamander

Wanda Kohlmann

4/17/2011 01:44:58 am

Absolutely beautiful morning! We've had high winds in the Tennessee Valley too.

Scott

4/17/2011 02:31:51 am

Not sure about the rest of you all but Im about sick of wind this Spring.Rain too.

Sharon

4/17/2011 02:58:29 am

Thanks so much for your wonderful photos & updates!

Tony Ga

4/17/2011 03:08:24 am

Are the red cheeks on that salamander from the 19 degree weather?

Donnie R.

4/17/2011 11:29:01 am

Donnie R

4/17/2011 11:33:09 am

My girls and I are regulars to the Smokies and we always salamander hunt. We routinely find the little guys in the creeks on Roaring Fork but have not to my knowledge found a Jordan Red Cheeks...any tips to find these guys is appreciated. Thanx

Salamander Sam

4/18/2011 12:44:21 am

@ Donnie: The red-cheeked salamander, also known as Jordan's salamander, is found in the Appalachian mountains exclusively in southwest Virginia, western North Carolina and northeast Tennessee. It inhabits the forest floor and is active on the surface at night when the humidity is high and temperatures are mild. During the day it occupies burrows under stones and logs, or tunnels formed by rotted roots. This species is normally found above 3000 feet and is currently threatened by habitat destruction. It typically grows 3.5-5.0 inches long. They mate in the fall and deposit a single spermatophore with great success.

Donnie

4/18/2011 09:33:52 am

Excellent ! Thanks for the tips Salamander Sam...I believe we have been looking in all the wrong places. The girls and I will be on the hunt come May during our next visit. Thanks again !

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Frosty Mountain Top

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