Description: P. petraeus is one of the larger species within its genus with fully grown males reaching up to 80 mm SVL (Snout-vent length) and fully grown females reaching up to 84.3 mm SVL. Both males and females have a reddish-brown coloration on their chins as well as running from the backs of their heads, along their backs, and onto their tails. White spots and brass colored spots line the abdomen, tail, and limbs of this species. Furthermore, their feet are webbed, flattened, and broad while they have bulbous, forward facing eyes.

Habitat: P. petraeus is found in sparsely located caves and rocky outcrops.

Range: The Pigeon Mountain Salamander (Plethodon petraeus) is a species of salamander only found on Pigeon Mountain, located in the northwestern region of the state of Georgia in the United States. This salamander lives on only a 17 kilometer strip of land on the eastern side of Pigeon Mountain, making it an endemic species to this location. Within this strip of land, Despite the lack of abundance of these caves and outcrops,P. petraeus can be found in great numbers at these locations.

Found in these States: GA

Diet: Amnts and beetles are especially important prey items, though many other invertebrates also are consumed. While Pigeon Mountain salamanders are often opportunistic feeders “sitting and waiting” for prey, the presence in dissected stomachs of larval beetles and flies associated with rotting logs, dung, and other moist substrates indicates that prey are also actively searched for and removed from such substrates. Larval insects associated with small, stagnant pools of water are also found in dissected stomachs, suggesting that Pigeon Mountain salamanders also forage in aquatic microhabitats.

Reproduction: Reproduction is terrestrial. Mating behavior unknown. Breeding and nest sites unknown. Egg deposition sites are unknown, but likely in caves. Based on the number of developing oocytes found in dissected, mature females, it was determined an average clutch size of 19.3. As a member of the genus Plethodon, direct development of Pigeon Mountain salamanders is assumed, however eggs and hatchlings are unknown.

Status: Listed as Near Threatened since this species is range-restricted and occurs at fewer than five threat-defined locations. Deforestation and mining practices in the surrounding area may lead to loss and fragmentation of suitable habitats (and/or encroachment into the protected area) in the future, which could drive the species to Vulnerable or Endangered in a very short time.

Taxonomy: