| Hellbender | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Information | |
| Range | USA |
| Scientific Classification | |
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Amphibia |
| Order | Urodela |
| Family | Cryptobranchidae |
| Genus | Cryptobranchus |
| Species | C. alleganiensis |
| Conservation Status | |
 Near Threatened | |
Hellbenders are large salamanders that prefer living under rocks underwater. Hellbenders thrive in streams, they forage for fish, crayfish and other molluscs. Similar to mudpuppies, they have extremely slimy skin and are harmless to humans. They can be picked up but due to their slippery skin they must be grasped firmly, preferably around the head. The mating season for hellbenders is during the fall (autumn).