This species can be found in rock-strewn woodland streams, seepages, and springs in the northern portion of its range, and in floodplains, sloughs, and mucky sites along upland streams in the south. Individuals are usually found near running or trickling water. It hides under leaves, rocks, or other objects in or near water, or in burrows. Eggs are laid near water under moss (e.g., in Tennessee, see Hom 1988) or rocks, in logs, and in stream-bank cavities. This species has a biphasic life cycle that includes an aquatic larval stage followed by a semi-terrestrial adult stage strongly associated with the aquatic habitat (Petranka 1998).

This species occurs in North America (Canada and USA) from southern New Brunswick, southeastern Quebec, and southern Ontario (Kamstra 1991) south to southeastern Indiana, western Kentucky, eastern Tennessee, and northeastern Georgia (Conant and Collins 1991, Titus and Larson 1996, Bonett 2002, Beamer and Lamb 2008). Subpopulations south of this range, particularly on the Coastal Plain, are now regarded as a distinct species (Desmognathus conanti) (Titus and Larson 1996, Crother et al. 2000, Bonett 2002) and may include additional unnamed species (Beamer and Lamb 2008). Additionally, subpopulations from the upper reaches of the Roanoke and Dan River drainages in southwest Virginia and extending into the Virginia piedmont belong to D. planiceps (Tilley et al. 2008, Beamer and Lamb 2020). Elevational range extend from sea level to 1,600 metres asl. (COSEWIC 2012). This species is thought to represent a complex (Beamer and Lamb 2020, D. Beamer pers. comm. June 2021), and therefore further taxonomic research is needed to help clarify the distribution of this species.

Conservation Actions In-Place
This species occurs in several protected areas. Currently, about 25% of the area of occupancy in Canada is in protected areas including Mount Orford Park, Mount Saint-Bruno Park and Mount Megantic Park (COSEWIC 2012).

Research Needed
Research is needed on population size and trends. Additionally, taxonomic research is recommended in light of the cryptic species present in this complex.