Coal miners once carried caged canaries to detect detect dangerous gases deep underground. The small caged birds--environmental indicators--served as an early warning of problems. North Carolina is fortunate to have its own state-wide environmental indicator, salamanders. No place on the planet has a greater variety of these beautiful amphibians than the Tar Heel State. Exploring North Carolina traveled from the highest mountains and to our coastal plain to tell the story of these magnificent creatures. Utilizing stunning close-up photography, you will learn why salamanders are among our most valuable neighbors.