Crow’s Nest critters

Yesterday I found this salamander in our yard. I think it is the slimy salamander, Plethodon glutinosus. If I am correct this is the first one I’ve ever seen here. I didn’t handle it so I can’t vouch for sliminess, but the name comes from a secretion the animal releases when handled roughly—a defense mechanism.

The other day I saw this beautiful black rat snake in the yard behind the farmhouse that is being restored.

Posted by Daniel Barringer on July 15, 2013.