lack of competition also may be due to the fact that it is very secretive. It is seldom seen on the surface, which may be an anti-predatory response. The only species of Desmognathus which would be found in the same habitat as the seepage salamander and create competitive pressure is the pygmy salamander (D. wrighti). However, the ranges of the two species rarely overlap. The pygmy salamander is found at higher elevations, while the seepage salamander is found at lower ones. The pygmy salamander is found on the border of North Carolina and Tennessee. The distribution range of the seepage salamander begins just below the pygmy salamander's range. However, there have been cases where the two species are found together. It has been observed that they coexist in Monroe County, Tennessee and it is possible that they coexist in Blount County, Tennessee. Further studies are needed to determine their interactions and would aid in conservation efforts. Life history and behavior Seepage salamanders are rarely seen on the surface even at night, despite being nocturnal. The food sources consists mainly of arthropods, especially insect larvae and springtails. Mites, spiders, earthworms, crustaceans, nematodes, myriapods, and snails have also been found to be eaten by seepage salamanders. Life history The seepage salamander is terrestrial and develop directly into juveniles, skipping the aquatic, larval stage. The length of time between fertilization and hatching is 68–75 days. When eggs hatch, the juveniles clearly resemble the adults. They possess eyes, naso-labial grooves, gills, coloration similar to adults, and lack gills. Their gills are shorter and branch less than other Desmognathus species, and are reabsorbed very quickly. In other non-direct developing Desmognathus species, naso-labial grooves, coloration, and eyes are not present when eggs are first hatched, but show up after and extended larval period. This larval stage also possesses tails and gills that are not quickly resorbed in comparison. Oviposition occurs in April and May, with all eggs ready for deposition by the female being laid. The eggs hatch in the late spring and summer. There have been some discrepancies about how long it takes for the eggs to hatch. Both males and females reach sexual maturation after two years. Harrison (1967) found that eggs hatched in 43–45 days, but Marks and Collazo found 68–75 days. This may be due to different incubation temperatures, but the difference has not been fully explored. Courtship There is little diversity