In the chilled, fast-flowing waters of a mountain stream, we carefully searched beneath boulders and along the rocky riverbed in hopes of finding one of the river’s most elusive residents—the giant salamander. Their camouflage makes them nearly indistinguishable from the stones they inhabit, blending perfectly into the dark, moving water. After a patient search, we finally spotted this ancient creature resting among the rocks, its mottled skin rippling in the current.