Cœur d’Alene salamander COSEWIC assessment and status report: chapter 1

Assessment Summary

Assessment Summary – November 2007

Common name : Cœur d’Alene Salamander

Scientific name : Plethodon idahoensis

Status : Special Concern

Reason for designation : The species has a restricted range in southeastern British Columbia and a limited area of occupancy. It is highly dependent on moist, shaded, faulted, rock outcrops, which are scattered throughout the otherwise dry landscape of the Southern Columbia Mountains. The climate in this region, which is characterized by extremes in temperature and humidity levels, compounds the isolated nature of the populations. This species’ highly specialized habitat requirements and life history increase its vulnerability to habitat disturbance and fragmentation. Road construction and small-scale hydro development are potential threats.

Occurrence : British Columbia

Status history : Designated Special Concern in April 1998. Status re-examined and confirmed in November 2001 and November 2007. Last assessment based on an update status report.

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