According to the Missouri Department of Conservation; the origin of the name “hellbender” is unclear. The name 'hellbender' probably comes from the animal’s odd look. Perhaps it was named by settlers who thought "it was a creature from hell where it’s bent on returning". Another rendition says the undulating skin of a hellbender reminded observers of 'horrible tortures of the infernal regions'. In reality, it’s a harmless aquatic salamander.
Vernacular names include "snot otter", "devil dog", "mud-devil", "grampus", "Allegheny alligator", “lasagna sides”, "mud dog” and "leverian water newt".
The Ozark hellbender is not a cute and cuddly creature, but Missouri and Arkansas should take pride in ensuring its long-term survival because they are found nowhere else on Earth. The Ozark Hellbender has been added to the Endangered Species List.
6" wide green, matte print finish with ivory border.
Made in the USA.
