Description: 8-13 in. (20-33 cm) Coloration is gray or rust-brown, belly will have dark spots or a dark line.  The external gills can be quite colorful, either red or orange colored.
Habitats: Usually found in lakes, ponds, rivers, streams, and permanent bodies of water.  This species is found in the mountains of western North Carolina.  The external gills  are quite sensitive to any pollution and many times the condition of the mudpuppy's gills indicates the health of the environment.
Habits: Mudpuppies are usually nocturnal though few may be seen during the day in marshy areas.  They feed on mollusks, aquatic insects, fish, fish eggs and crayfish.
Young: The young mudpuppy has a dark stripe down its back with two yellow stripes on each side. Larvae are usually large.
Status: Very abundant through out its range.