When Hurricane Helene tore through the Appalachian region, it didn’t just impact human communities. It also destroyed critical habitats for an iconic species—the eastern hellbender. This large, aquatic salamander, known for its unique appearance and slow life cycle, was already struggling to survive before the storm. Now, its future looks even more uncertain.
The eastern hellbender, which can grow up to 20 inches long, is one of two subspecies of hellbenders in the United States. It used to thrive across a 15-state range, from northern Alabama to New York. However, over the years, their population has dropped significantly. Today, less than 12% of the remaining populations are stable and reproducing. The damage caused by Helene could make those numbers even worse.
Western North Carolina (WNC) once had some of the healthiest hellbender populations in the country. These areas were vital for the species’ survival, as many populations in other regions were already in decline.
But Helene’s destructive floodwaters devastated key habitats in the region, including the Nolichucky, Holston, and Doe rivers. Many hellbenders were swept away or killed, especially since the storm hit during their breeding season. Nests with eggs were destroyed, and adults seeking refuge above water often died in the aftermath.
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is now one of the few safe havens for the species. Although the park’s streams are not ideal habitats, its protected waterways are crucial for the hellbender’s survival, especially after the destruction outside its boundaries. Jonathan Cox, a wetlands biology technician, said the park’s role in conserving the species is more critical than ever.
Challenges Facing the Hellbender
The eastern hellbender is highly sensitive to environmental changes. It feeds on crawfish and breathes through its skin, making it vulnerable to water pollution and habitat destruction. Sedimentation—caused by dirt and debris filling up the spaces between rocks in streams—is one of the biggest threats to the species.
When these spaces are clogged, young hellbenders can’t survive. Unfortunately, Helene caused massive sedimentation as floodwaters carried dirt, oil, chemicals, and other pollutants downstream. This not only destroyed habitats but also made water quality worse.
On top of that, the storm damaged over 800,000 acres of forest in the region. Many of these forests once shaded streams, keeping the water cool and suitable for hellbenders. Without these trees, the remaining habitats may not be able to support the species in the long term.
A Push for Endangered Species Listing
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) has proposed listing the eastern hellbender as an endangered species. This decision comes after years of advocacy by conservation groups like the Center for Biological Diversity. The proposed listing would unlock funding to restore habitats and protect the species from further decline. Will Harlan, a senior scientist with the center, called the listing a “beacon of hope” for both the hellbender and the communities affected by Helene.
Restoration efforts could include cleaning up waterways, replanting trees along stream banks, and reducing sedimentation. These measures would not only help the hellbender but also improve drinking water quality and support local ecosystems. However, rebuilding these habitats will take time. Since hellbenders take about six years to reach maturity and can live for over 30 years, recovery will be a slow process.
A Collaborative Effort for Conservation
Despite the challenges, conservationists remain hopeful. Lori Williams, a wildlife biologist, said the hellbender has a strong community of supporters, including researchers and conservation organizations. New techniques and research are being developed to protect the species and address threats like sedimentation and water pollution.
While the scars of Hurricane Helene will impact the region for decades, experts believe that with the right efforts, both the hellbender and affected communities can recover. The endangered species listing could be the first step toward a brighter future for this unique Appalachian salamander.
As Harlan said, “With funding and support, hellbenders and Helene-impacted communities can bounce back. It’s possible to save this species and restore the health of our waterways.”
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