Hellbender Education Kit

Hellbenders (Cryptobranchus alleganiensis) are North America's largest salamanders and their range extends from southern New York to northern Georgia and west to Missouri and Arkansas. Hellbenders are fully aquatic and live in cool, clear streams with moderate to fast current. Hellbender populations have been declining at an alarming rate and will need help if they are to survive.

Illinois Natural History Survey staff have prepared this kit to educate the public about the plight of the hellbender. The kit includes a life-sized model of a hellbender, individually hand cast in polyurethane resin from a mold derived from an actual museum speciman. Each model is meticulously hand painted and comes with a base resembling a stream bottom and a booklet with information and activities on hellbenders. Price for the kit is $100 plus shipping and handling.

For information on availability and how to order e-mail
or telephone 217-333-6835.