Dusky Slamander Habitat (above) Actual Salamander (below). 

In June 2008 a fellow Naturalist and I were herping around Hemlock Overlook. Along a path I noticed something peering through a cavity at the base of large tree. About two feet off the ground (see pic on left) was an American Toad tucked away -maybe waiting to ambush an unsuspecting human.  I have no idea how he managed to climb that high  into that cavity? Close up of same toad in right photo.

 Another common stream side salamander here in Clifton.  Related to the Long tail Salamander.  This one was photographed near the rail road bridge crossing Popes Head Creek in the 8 acre park.

This one was photographed along Popes Head creek parallel to the rail road in area located just before Hemlock Overlook.  Although terrestial as adults, they are mot commonly found very close to rocky streams and stream banks

Took these phots at Mason Neck Park Back in July 2007.