A small salamander with sparkly markings found only in three spots in Virginia may soon get federal protection. On August 5, the Center for Biological Diversity filed a petition asking the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to protect the Dixie Caverns salamander under the Endangered Species Act. These rare salamanders live exclusively in Roanoke County and face multiple threats to their survival. With populations discovered at just three locations, scientists worry these unique amphibians could disappear forever. “These salamanders are small and slender with white and brassy flecks along their dark bodies,” said Trisha Sharma, a legal fellow at the … Continue reading Rare Virginia Salamander Found in Only 3 Locations Faces Extinction as Protection Petition Filed