eastern redback salamander (plethodon cinereus)

Eastern Redback Salamander (Plethodon cinereus): The Hardy Woodland Icon

The eastern redback salamander (plethodon cinereus)) is one of the most widespread and recognizable salamander species in eastern North America. Known for its resilience, striking color patterns, and lungless anatomy, the redback salamander is a favorite among herpetology enthusiasts, educators, and terrarium hobbyists.

If you’re looking to add this fascinating species to your collection, you’ll find healthy, captive-bred specimens and all necessary care supplies at OneStopReptileShop.com, your trusted source for reptiles, amphibians, and enclosure gear.

Identification: What Makes the Eastern Redback Salamander Unique?

The eastern redback salamander (plethodon cinereus), is a small terrestrial amphibian that rarely exceeds 4 inches in length. What makes this species instantly recognizable is its vivid color morphs. The most common morph features a bright red or orange stripe running down the back, while the less common “leadback” morph is solid gray or dark brown with no stripe.

This salamander belongs to the Plethodontidae family—lungless salamanders that breathe through their skin and mouth lining. Because of this, they require high-humidity environments to survive.

Key Features of eastern redback salamander (plethodon cinereus)

• Size: 2.5–4 inches (6–10 cm)

• Color Morphs: Redback (striped), Leadback (unstriped), and rare erythristic (entirely red) forms

• Skin: Smooth, moist, and sensitive to touch

• Toes: Four on both front and hind limbs

• Respiration: Lungless, requiring constant skin moisture

Their secretive behavior and vibrant appearance make them a perfect subject for naturalistic, mossy terrarium setups.

Ideal Enclosure Setup

eastern redback salamander (plethodon cinereus) are terrestrial and prefer to live under leaf litter, moss, and bark in moist hardwood forests. Their terrarium should replicate this environment closely:

• Tank Size: 10-gallon for a pair or trio

• Substrate: Eco Earth, leaf litter, sphagnum moss

• Humidity: 80% or higher

• Temperature: 55–70°F (ideal for cool room setups)

• Lighting: Minimal to none; ambient room light is sufficient

• Decor: Bark pieces, leaf litter, moss, and flat rocks for hiding

A bioactive enclosure with springtails and isopods will help maintain cleanliness and humidity. You can find substrate mixes, moss, and live microfauna at OneStopReptileShop.com.

Feeding the eastern redback salamander (plethodon cinereus)

This species is insectivorous and feeds on small invertebrates. In the wild, they eat:

• Springtails

• Small isopods

• Mites

• Termites

• Tiny worms

In captivity, feed them pinhead crickets, fruit flies (flightless), white worms, and other tiny live prey. Feeding is best done in the evening or after misting, as these salamanders are nocturnal.

Feed every 2–3 days for juveniles and 2–3 times per week for adults. Make sure prey is size-appropriate and dusted with calcium occasionally.

Behavior and Temperament

Eastern redback salamanders are shy, secretive, and rarely seen unless their hiding spots are disturbed. They do not tolerate handling well and should be appreciated primarily as display animals. When stressed, they may coil their body or even shed their tail as a defense mechanism.

Interestingly, they exhibit territorial behavior and will defend their microhabitat against others of the same species. This should be considered if housing multiple individuals.

Breeding and Reproduction

Breeding occurs in late spring and early summer. Females lay clutches of eggs in moist moss or under bark, often guarding them until they hatch. Unlike many salamanders, their young do not go through a larval aquatic phase—they hatch as miniature adults, fully terrestrial from birth.

If you’re interested in breeding, you’ll need to simulate seasonal temperature drops and provide secluded, humid nesting areas.

Why Keep the Eastern Redback Salamander?

• Low-maintenance care: Ideal for beginner amphibian keepers

• No water feature needed: Fully terrestrial species

• Educational value: Great for classrooms and educational displays

• Natural beauty: Vivid coloration and natural behavior

• No special lighting: No UVB or heating required in most homes

Shop Redback Salamanders Online

If you’re looking to own one of nature’s most resilient and fascinating terrestrial amphibians, the eastern redback salamander (plethodon cinereus) is an excellent choice. Browse available stock, complete care kits, and terrarium supplies at OneStopReptileShop.com, where quality and care meet expert knowledge.