Neotenic salamanders in Oregon?

[TwistedWindSox]

Hello!
I tried to find the answer to this on my own, but couldn't find anything that matched my location.
A few people have informed me (after finding out that I have axolotls) that they see axies in streams or springs around here. I know that they are not axolotls, so I did some research into what they could be. I have yet to find any Neotenic species that live in my area. The closest is the California tiger salamander, but even that seems to live farther south than where I am.
I live in the Rogue valley region of southern Oregon. Everyone says that the "axolotls" they see are about six inches, and are brown or mottled brown.
Does any one have any ideas as to what these may be?
Thanks!

 

[Kaysie]

Dicamptodon. They get to be pretty large before they morph, and sometimes you can get neotenic adults.

Also, just FYI, John Q. Public thinks every salamander with gills is an axolotl. Or something. I had one guy swear up and down that he found fire salamanders in his back yard in Michigan. I just nod and smile.

 

[TwistedWindSox]

Thank you so much! I wonder why this didn't come up when I was searching.
I really appreciate it!