Mudpuppy
Well today’s critter isn’t really a puppy, but they sure do thrive in muddy water. They’re cool as can be … let’s see what we can learn!
Critter At A Glance
What makes this critter so cool? Mudpuppies are like lizard/salamanders of the pond. They are really good at camouflaging into muddy pond water, and they are most active in the night time. They swim in little spurts but are really good at scavenging for whatever they can find on the pond bottoms.
How do they start out? Mudpuppy babies hatch from eggs and are smaller than an inch at first. Babies stay with their mother at first because they are easily preyed upon by fish, salamanders, or even leeches.
Where can they be found? They can be found across North America in ponds and streams. Some areas, such as Maryland, has them listed as endangered due to pollution and other issues related to people.
What can we learn about these critters from the story?
Are you ready for an out of this world fact?
Mudpuppies, also called waterdogs, are one of only a few salamanders that make a sound like a squeaky dog!
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Can you CREATE a mudpuppy with it’s own story? Try drawing one of these fascinating critters, then finish the thought below!
“If I were a mudpuppy I would……”
Share your work, can’t wait to see! #heymrjim
The Maryland Zoo in Baltimore. “Mudpuppy | The Maryland Zoo.” The Maryland Zoo, https://www.facebook.com/MarylandZoo, https://www.marylandzoo.org/animal/mudpuppy/. Accessed 26 May 2022.
“Mudpuppy | National Geographic.” Animals, https://www.nationalgeographic.com/animals/amphibians/facts/mudpuppy. Accessed 26 May 2022.