What kind of animal is a hellbender? | SouthernPaddler.com

What kind of animal is a hellbender?

oldyaker

Well-Known Member
Aug 26, 2003
1,949
31
It’s not Kayak Jack! :rolleyes:
*owl *salamander *eel *beetle
Some of our older gentlemen may know this one.
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Also referred to as a "mud devil," "devil dog," or "snot otter," the hellbender comes in a few varieties. In the United States, the eastern hellbender can be found from southern New York to northern Georgia. Despite their name, the nocturnal amphibians are relatively docile during the day. They emerge from the rocky beds of fast-flowing streams at night to hunt for food, like crayfish. Hellbenders average around 15 inches long, so they aren't big; their intimidating name likely comes from other parts of their appearance, such as the red-brown splotches on their bodies, dark eyes, and elongated snouts.
Source: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service | Date Updated: July 28, 2020