This species can be found in mature Appalachian hardwood forest, mainly on northern facing slopes and in coves and shaded ravines, and also in rhododendron thickets. Individuals are primarily found under downed logs and rocks and among wet leaf-litter in middle to late successional stages of oak-maple woodland (Bury et al. 1980, Mitchell 1991). This species often climbs into vegetation, especially ferns, during June-September at night during foraging activities (Kramer et al. 1993). During dry periods, individuals often first move to surface refuges such as rocks and logs, and then eventually move below ground as the surface continues to dry (Jaeger 1980). They then re-emerge following rainfall events to forage. Kniowski and Reichenbacht (2009) found a positive correlation between surface densities of this species and the time interval between rain events. More research is needed, but this species may exhibit a higher degree of microhabitat preference in relation to moisture and temperature conditions than P. cinereus (Farallo and Miles 2016). While some studies have suggested that the distribution of this species is limited by competitive interaction with P. cinereus, Arif et al. (2007) suggests that the restricted distribution is a function of abiotic factors rather than competition. This species might be vulnerable to habitat fragmentation and clear cutting, as it is primarily found in good quality, undisturbed habitat (V. Farallo pers. comm. May 2021). It is a terrestrial breeder with direct development.

This species can be found in the Blue Ridge Mountains, northeast of Roanoke, Virginia, in the United States. Most of the known range is within the Jefferson National Forest and Blue Ridge Parkway. It is primarily known from localities along the Blue Ridge Parkway between miles 78 and 84 (Bedford and Botetourt counties) in the Sharp Top, Flat Top, Onion, and Apple Orchard mountains and vicinity. It has been recorded at elevations ranging from 550-1,021 m asl, however it is likely to be found up to the peaks of the mountains where it occurs (Mitchell 1991, V. Farallo pers. comm. May 2021). This species is sympatric with the wide-ranging Eastern Red-backed Salamander, P. cinereus, at the edge of its range (Petranka 1998, Kniowski and Reichenbacht 2009). Competitive interactions with P. cinereus may be a limiting factor in the distribution of this species (Highton 1972, Jaeger 1974, Kniowski and Reichenbacht 2009). Its extent of occurrence (EOO) is 52 km².

Conservation Actions In-Place
Nearly the entire known range is within Jefferson National Forest and Blue Ridge Parkway, which are both considered to currently be well-managed. It is recognized as a Federal species At Risk by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and listed as a Species of Concern by the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries. 

In an effort to prevent the introduction of Bsal into the US, an Interim Rule of the Lacey Act has been enacted that bans the importation of 201 species of salamanders (USFWS 2016). Additionally, a temporary voluntary trade moratorium of imports of Asian salamander species that are known to carry the disease until such time as effective testing and treatment regimens can be developed and distributed has been recommended to all exporters, shippers, sellers and buyers by the Pet Industry Joint Advisory Council (PIJAC). A North America Bsal Task Force has also been created, with working groups designed to address a variety of disease prevention and mitigation goals (North America Bsal Task Force 2021).

Conservation Needed
Recommended conservation measures include improved management of the existing protected area(s). Additionally, improved policies regarding the causes and future impacts of climate change are needed (V. Farallo pers. comm. May 2021).

Research Needed
More information is needed on this species' distribution, population status, ecology, and threats. Specifically, more information on this species' use of underground habitats. Research is also needed to better understand the range boundary with P. cinereus and the potential for future encroachment (V. Farallo pers. comm. May 2021). Given the future threats from climate change, there is a need for continued close monitoring of the population status of this species.