Red-backed salamander photo, Image #SM-9566, St. Clair Nature Sanctuary, Michigan
Sometimes the smallest wildlife encounters can give the biggest joys, and this was the case this past weekend. For the very first time, I stumbled upon my first salamander in the woods. Red-backed salamanders (plethadon cinereus) as I understand are one of the more common varieties in Michigan, but I typically don’t go out specifically to look for them. I have turned over logs here and there, moved dead branches – just to see what there might be to see. But this weekend one practically appeared right at my feet.
I was actually composing a wide angle scenic shot and noticed a large dead branch laying on the ground that was interfering with the composition. I moved it aside, and when I knelt down again, I saw what I thought was a worm at first. But there was something odd about this worm – it had legs and tiny little toes.
Not having any experience around salamanders, I wasn’t sure if he was dead, stalking me, or just lounging on this leaf. Fortunately he was very alive, and not very skittish at first. It was quite cold in the morning. I quickly switched over to my macro lens so I could grab a few shots while the opportunity was presenting itself. Since I was pretty excited that this critter that just presented itself to me, I then snapped a shot with my iPhone to send via text to my wife as I thought she would think it was pretty cool. When I finished the text, I looked down – the salamander was gone. Obviously I insulted him by interrupting our little private photo shoot to send a text message. I didn’t know they were so sensitive.
All in all not a bad day in the field. I went on to photograph a bit more in the woods. But nothing nearly as intriguing. I walked away with a wildlife first, and a note to self. If you are going to text message in front of a salamander, at least have the forethought to hide the phone from sight.
I really like the colors of this photo. The subject really stands out. The texture is perfect, everything is perfect! I love it! Beautiful are work.
Having grown up in the desert southwest, I’ve never seen one of these either. Beautiful image, though…these are great little creatures!
Excellent image of this critter – beech leaves make a good setting. Good story, too.
The subtlety of the leaf texture in the background is perfect! It took me a few seconds to notice it, but it really adds to the shot. The rust color also plays well off the red coloring on the salamander.
I’ve never seen one like that! I really like the texture of the leaves in this image too.
Thanks Anne for stopping by.
That’s the fundamental point of it all right, enjoying nature and being open to the experience. Its what makes your work so honest.
Thanks Paul.
Glad everyone liked this one, thank you!
Great find, Mark. Too bad that it was so sensitive! 🙂 I’d love to find such a fellow in the woods. I remember finding them as a kid when at summer camp. Very cool.
Wow…never saw a salamander even as a kid turning rocks and logs? I am glad you found this and maybe it’s the start of many more herp experiences Mark. It’s a really nice image too.
Totally agree, Mark. It’s the small stuff that can bring us the biggest smiles of enjoyment.
The S shape curve of his body compliments the veins on the leaves beautifully and his coloring sets off the background nicely. A great capture.
Yeah, it’s a little know fact that most salamanders are Android fans. 🙂
At least you got a good photo before you started texting — nice find and capture!