This salamander prefers moist, acidic environments, such as those found in swamps, ponds, and floodplains in wooded areas with decomposing organic material. Nocturnal, it remains under the protective cover of debris during the day. When threatened, it may leap great distances to avoid capture. It may also lighten or darken its color to improve camouflage. Breeding occurs from September to October.
Females lay eggs under moist debris.
In North America, this salamander is found in a continuous band along the East and Gulf Coasts from Virginia to Texas. In Texas, it is found in the central and southern portions of East Texas. This project funded by the University of Texas College of Natural Sciences and the Texas Memorial Museum . Comments welcome .