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The greater siren is a primative salamander that reaches lengths of more than three feet.  Found in wetlands of the Southeastern United States, this aquatic salamander spends most of its time buried in mud or sand.  At night, it hunts for insects, worms, crayfish, snails and small fish.

greater siren looking at the camera

Did You Know?

Greater sirens can survive a drought for up to 3 years by burrowing into the wet soil, curl up into an “S” shape and building a cocoon out of dead cells to withstand the dry conditions.

Quick Facts

Latin Name:
Siren lacertina

Range:
Southeastern United States

Habitat:
Wetlands

Length:
up to 3 feet

Zoo Location:
Manatee Springs

Diet:
insects, crustaceans, gastropods, bivalves, spiders, molluscs, and crayfish