Mudpuppy might sound like a joke name, but it is actually the common name for a real and fascinating salamander found right here in Indiana. According to the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, biologists are actively tracking mudpuppy sightings across the state, and they are asking Hoosiers to help.
What Mudpuppies Are And Why Indiana DNR Is Tracking Them
Mudpuppies are fully aquatic salamanders that spend their entire lives underwater. Unlike many amphibians, they are active year-round, but winter is actually one of the best times to spot them.
Why Winter Can Be The Best Time To Spot Mudpuppies
DNR says mudpuppies often move into shallow lake waters during colder months and are most frequently seen or accidentally caught while fishing in January and February. Some people also spot them at night along seawalls using a flashlight.
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How To Identify A Mudpuppy In Indiana Waters
In Indiana, mudpuppies are considered a species of special concern when it comes to population conservation. They can grow up to about 16 inches long and feed on small fish, crayfish, and insect larvae. One unique feature is their external gills, which look like feathery red tufts on the sides of their heads. They also have a dark stripe or mask that runs from the gills across the eyes toward the nose.
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