Desmo ID?

[warrior]

Ok I found this large salamander that is either a black bellied-salamander(Desmognathus quadramaculatus) or a seal salamander(desmognathus monticola).Im having the hardest time identifying which of these it is.I found it in a stream that leads up to a waterfall under a log that was in the stream.It was very slippery and hard to grasp and was very fast.I know both of these are stream sals but are there any distinct differences that maybe can help me identify it,I dont think i can show a pic as it is hard to keep it still.If there are any side by side pics or anybody know a good web site that shows good pics of these sals.Also does anyone keep either of these sals?thanks Eddie.

 

[Nathan050793]

Caudata Culture, It is part of this site. It has pictures of both.

 

[cecalak]

Best way to tell the two species apart is to gently sqeeze the animal between your hands and slightly open your fingers to look at the belly. If it is black or dark, it is a blackbelly, if not its a monticola. Good luck getting your hands on them!

 

[taherman]

Alternatively you can put the animal in a clear plastic bag, which might be easier than trying to physically restrain it.