Hellbender Cryptobranchus alleganiensis

The Hellbender is native to clean, clear, fast-flowing water of the eastern United States. The only species in its genus, it is the largest salamander in North America, growing to some 60cm (2 feet) typically and up to 74cm exceptionally. Its loose skin allows it to hide under rocks.

Populations have suffered significant declines in recent years through manmade habitat loss, degradation and pollution, together with over-collection. They are now classed as vulnerable.