Searching for Hellbenders

After learning about reptiles and amphibians we went with a herpetologist to French Creek to look for hellbenders and other types of salamanders. Hellbenders are a type of salamander that only lives in specific areas. It is also a mascot for Creek Camp. We lifted large flat rocks and looked for any movement. When a hellbender was spotted a creek camper would grab them around their neck and then the middle of their body. The hellbender would then be placed in a net and then held up by other creek campers for a picture. About six hellbenders and one mudpuppy, another type of salamander, were found. It was a warm afternoon spent with an expert who is passionate about her job, an ideal atmosphere for finding hellbenders.