For a long time now, I have gazed at photos of Four Toed Salamanders (Hemidactylium scutatum) in books and in posts on the various forums. I have always wanted to see one of these little caudates in the wild. I am intrigued by the hard to find species, and this critter falls into that category. I got a tip on where to find Hemidactylium from someone I know, and of course, I had to investigate. Finding these in Illinois is no easy task. Most of the populations around Chicago are considered extripated, and there are only a few known populations left in northern Illinois. This species is listed as Threatened in Illinois.

It was a two hour drive from my house to get to the spot. I met my boss, Lynn Corey, at his house, and we went out in search of these elusive creatures. The skys looked like they may open up on us at any time, but we were lucky to only get a few light sprinkles. In order to get to the springs where the salamanders reside, we needed to walk down a steep hill, which was covered with interesting plants like ferns, and Jack-in-the-Pulpits.

Jack-in-the-Pulpit

Arisaema triphyllum

We finally reached the cool streams located at the bottom of the hill, and began looking under logs and moss. This habitat looks perfect for Wood Frogs (Rana sylvatica) and Pickerel Frogs (Rana palustris,) although none were seen on this day. After about 45 minutes of searching, Lynn called, "Scott! COME QUICK! Ooh, there's two of them!" I ran over to see him holding two Four Toed Salamanders, the species we had come to see.

Four Toed Salamander (Hemidactylium scutatum)

{{!gwi}}

{{!gwi}}

Where they were:

I really enjoyed finally seeing and photographing this species, which is a lifer for me. This is the 13th lifer i have found already this year!

On the way home, I stopped to see if I could find some Fox Snakes. I walked along a railroad, and came across this little guy, photographed in situ:

Western Fox Snake (Elaphe vulpina)

Du Page County, Illinois

The same snake:

{{!gwi}}

I also saw six Eastern Tiger Salamanders.

Finding lifers always makes for a great day! I'm glad to be lucky enough to see a species that's so rare in Illinois.

Thanks for reading!

Scott Albert