Meet Our Animals > Hellbender
Quick Facts
Native to Eastern United States
Primary Diet Primarily crayfish, but also frogs, fish, and invertebrates
Adult Weight 5 pounds
Lifespan 30 years
Status Near Threatened

Hellbender

Hellbenders are the largest salamanders in North America. They have lungs that are largely non-functional. Instead, hellbenders breathe using several loose flaps of thick wrinkled skin running along their sides. They are nocturnal animals, seeking cover by day under large rocks and logs and becoming active at night to hunt. Hellbenders depend on smell and touch to find their prey.

Related

Class |

Amphibian

Habitat |

Aquatic & Reptile Center

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