• East view from Crissy Field overlook with old Coast Guard station on left and city on right

    Presidio of San Francisco

    California

There are park alerts in effect.
show Alerts »
  • CAUTION: Post Storm Damage to Coastal Trail

    The Presidio Coastal Trail segment just north of the Pacific Overlook and adjacent to Lincoln Blvd remains CLOSED indefinitely. We have posted signage to alert bicyclists and hikers and with information for safe trail alternatives. More »

Arboreal Salamander

Arboreal Salamander
An Arboreal Salamander in the Main Post area of the Presidio.
Will Elder, NPs
 

Natural History: This amphibian is found primarily in moist areas near permanent water. It is active nocturnally. As the environment dries during the summer months, it retreats to moist areas.

General Distribution: The arboreal salamander is found in annual grasslands, coastal scrub, and forested areas.

Frequency: This animal is uncommon within the Presidio.

Identifying Characteristics: This species appears as a plain brown with yellow spots and white below and a triangular head. Its toe tips are squarish and its tail is often coiled when at rest

Amphibians main page

Animals main page

Did You Know?

U.S. Army major rank insignia

In 1915, a tragic fire at the Presidio  claimed the lives of General Pershing’s wife and his three daughters.  Pershing's son, Francis Warren, survived the blaze and chose to enlist in the army as a private during World War II.  By the end of the war he had achieved the rank of major.