Naturalist’s Notebook
Celebrating Appalachia’s magnificent biodiversity
A Call to Protect the Hellbender, Appalachia’s Largest Salamander
The Eastern hellbender is eligible to receive federal protection under the Endangered Species Act. In December 2024, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service issued a proposal to classify the hellbender as endangered.
Endangered species listing could help save Eastern hellbenders in Appalachian streams
On Dec. 12, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service issued a proposal to classify the Eastern hellbender, the largest aquatic salamander in North America, as endangered.
Why Appalachia’s Spotted Skunk is so Rare
The eastern spotted skunk was not always as rare as it is today. Find out what researcher Emily Thorne has learned about this master of malodor.
Endangered Tiny Tarantula Faces Habitat Loss
An endangered, tiny tarantula living in moss in the Appalachian Mountains is losing more of its habitat.
10 New Spider Species Discovered in Appalachia
Researchers have discovered 10 new spider species that have adapted to the subterranean habitat of Appalachian caves.
