As an ecologist and conservationist, I'm particularly interested in highlighting some of the most interesting and hidden biodiversity of our little corner of the world.  And the hellbender is perhaps our most interesting and fascinating resident of our farm and area.

Helton Creek runs past our farm (on the opposite side of the road from the main farmhouse) and serves as habitat for this, the largest salamander in the U.S. and the third largest salamander in the world.  These behemoths can reach more than two feet long, though they are rarely seen since they spend their lives completely underwater and mostly under stones and branches.  They require cold, very clean, highly oxygenated streams, and Helton Creek fits all three criteria.  How cool to know this creature still exists around these parts!