Helene Recovery Project

Hellbenders

This project will assess conservation status and distribution of the Eastern Hellbender, proposed for federal endangered species protections, in watersheds impacted by Hurricane Helene. Future work will include raising young hellbenders in captivity and reintroducing them to restore populations and improve chances for species persistence.

Staff: John Connock

Graduate Students: Nicole Hernandez and Faith Dunlap

giant salamander peers out from underneath a rock where it protects its nest

Photo Credits: Dalton Everette