Did you know that the most populous animal in the Great Smoky Mountains is also one of the smallest? The Smokies are deemed the “Salamander Capital of the World” because the area is home to over 30 species. During your visit, one of the best places you can find them is around Grotto Falls. The rocks, water, and cool climate make for an excellent salamander habitat. Before you begin your search though, take some time to learn a little more about these small creatures. Here is a list of 4 interesting facts about salamanders in the Great Smoky Mountains:
1. They Regenerate Limbs and Organs
Salamanders may be small, but that doesn’t take away from their unique abilities. They have an excellent way to survive attacks from predators, which include raccoons, turtles, and snakes. That is, they do not scar and can regenerate limbs and organs. The amount of time it takes a salamander to regenerate limbs depends on their age, as a younger salamander’s limbs grow back much faster than those of an older salamander. Along with being able to regenerate limbs, salamanders are also able to repair vital organs, such as the heart, lungs, and brain.
2. They Don’t Have Vocal Cords
Another interesting fact about salamanders in the Great Smoky Mountains is that they don’t have vocal cords. As you’re walking along the hiking trails, you won’t hear the salamanders around like you would the “gobble gobble” of a wild turkey. Rather, salamanders communicate with one another by making clicking or snapping sounds. In dangerous situations, they may also exhale loudly. Another way that salamanders communicate is by using their sense of touch. They can also sense chemical signals as well. It could be said that being able to communicate without speaking is another great defense mechanism for salamanders because it will be harder for predators to find them without any sound.
3. Some Species Breathe Through Their Skin
Salamanders have gills because they are born in the water. Some of the species that live on land will later develop lungs and lose their gills as they get older. Other species don’t have lungs or gills. So, how do they breathe? It may surprise you to discover that salamanders without lungs can breathe through their skin. They “breathe” when gases exchanged in their blood vessels spread onto the skin.
4. Salamanders Are More Active in Colder Temperatures
Your chances of seeing a salamander in the Great Smoky Mountains can vary by season. This is because salamanders are more active in colder temperatures. With that being said, you are more likely to see them scurrying along the ground in the winter. You can still spot them in the summer snoozing under a rock to avoid the heat. If you do find a salamander, refrain from picking it up. While it may be tempting, it is better to leave them be. It is important to be respectful of all wildlife during your visit.
Before you go looking for salamanders, black bears, and other animals in the Great Smoky Mountains, discover 3 safety tips about viewing the Smoky Mountain wildlife!
