The eastern hellbender salamander is now an endangered species

The US Fish and Wildlife Service proposes to list the eastern hellbender, a large salamander, as an endangered species. This means the salamander will receive federal protections under the Endangered Species Act.

This proposed rule means that activities affecting the eastern hellbender or its habitat will face new restrictions. Land developers, farmers, and anyone working near rivers and streams in 15 eastern states will need to consider the salamander's presence. This listing adds another species to the growing list of animals requiring federal protection, which often leads to changes in land use and development practices.