This salamander has a defining thick head and body and a fourth toe on the hind foot with only three segments.

[5] This species of salamander is found in forested watersheds from lake Coeur d’Alene to the Salmon River, and in two locations in Montana around Mineral County.

They will eat things as large as shrews, mice, and small snakes, along with other salamanders.

They use toxic secretion from their skin, warning postures, a "bark" vocalization, and they will bite.

An Idaho giant salamander bite can easily break the skin of a human.