The red-backed salamander is a shy animal that lives under logs and leaves on forest floors. But thanks to some enthusiastic fourth graders, it’s had a moment in the spotlight. Meet the official amphibian of our nation’s capital!

The path to “official” status began when a boy named Max noticed a red-backed salamander under a log in a Washington, D.C. park. He decided his hometown should give it special status.

Once back at school, he got his fellow fourth graders to sign a petition. Then, the class gave the petition to a member of the Council of the District of Columbia, which makes the laws for the city. Max and his classmates spoke at a council meeting, explaining all the cool things about the salamander. For example, it keeps the forest healthy by eating insects that eat too much fungi. (The forest needs fungi to help break down dead plants and animals.)

The council supported the students’ campaign, and the red-backed salamander got its special recognition. What makes it extra cool is that its pattern matches the D.C. flag. It was meant to be!