Mudpuppy

Natural History​

Mudpuppies live in​ clean waters and tend to be nocturnal, hiding beneath rocks & other objects. Primarily bottom-walkers, they move into shallow water in spring and fall, but seek deeper water in winter and summer. They feed on crayfish, crustaceans, insect larvae, worms, fish eggs, small fish, carrion, & other amphibians. To better cope with their environment, mudpuppies have sense organs in their skin, which detect motion and pressure changes.​​

Reproduction and Growth

Mating occurs in the fall when males and females form aggregations in shallow water. The male deposits a spermatophore and female picks it up and stores it until spring. Egg laying occurs in May or early June. Nest cavities are excavated under a rock, log, or board in ½ to 10ft of water. Twelve to over 100 eggs are laid over several days, and incubation takes one to two months, depending on water temperature. Sexual maturity takes 4-6 years and they can live in excess of 20 years.

Conservation

This shy species is often persecuted because of how they look​. In recent years the numbers have been reported to be declining in this area. This species is vulnerable to pollutants and changes in water quality. They​ may also be​ sensitive to certain chemicals used in Lamprey control.

Habitat Type​

• Ephemeral wetlands.

• Agricultural areas.