Aneides - the Greek prefix a, designating "without" or "lacking" and neidos meaning feebleness as a reference to their stout body form and strong limbs

ferreus - the Latin word meaning "iron-coloured" alluding to the metallic mottling of the clouded colour phase

The salamander that climbs!

The salamanders of this genus are known as climbing salamanders. The only member of this genus in Canada, the clouded salamander, is an excellent climber. Its common name is derived from the ash-grey mottling on its side and back.