Can You Get Salamanders In The UK?

If you live in the UK and have an interest in amphibians, you might be curious about salamanders. These mysterious, slow-moving creatures are often seen in nature documentaries or kept as exotic pets in other countries. But can you get salamanders in the UK?

Yes, you can get salamanders in the UK. Some species are native and found in the wild, while others are available as captive-bred pets. However, native salamanders are protected by law and should not be taken from the wild. If you want one as a pet, it must be legally obtained from a reputable source.

Can You Keep Salamanders as Pets in the UK?

Yes, it is legal to keep some salamanders as pets in the UK, as long as they are legally obtained and captive-bred. This is very important.

You cannot and should not collect wild salamanders or newts, no matter how many you see in a local pond or stream.

Wildlife Protection Laws

The UK has strong wildlife laws in place to protect native animals. The Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 makes it illegal to capture, keep, or harm protected amphibians without permission.

This includes many newt species and any salamanders found in the wild.

These laws exist for good reasons. Amphibians are declining across the world, and even common-looking species may be under threat.

Removing them from their habitat can cause long-term harm, both to the animal and the ecosystem it belongs to.

If you want a salamander as a pet, the safest and most responsible way is to buy one from a licensed breeder or specialist pet store.

Buying from Pet Shops and Breeders

There are exotic pet shops and licensed breeders across the UK that offer salamanders for sale. Some of the species you might find include:

• Fire salamanders
• Tiger salamanders
• Marbled salamanders
• Axolotls (a type of aquatic salamander that stays in its larval form)

These animals are bred in captivity under controlled conditions.

They are healthier, more accustomed to life indoors, and far less likely to carry diseases that threaten native wildlife.

You should never buy a salamander from someone who can’t tell you where it came from. If a seller offers you a “wild-caught” salamander, that’s a red flag.

Not only is it likely illegal, but it’s also harmful to the animal and the environment.

Reputable breeders will be transparent about their practices. They’ll also be willing to answer questions and give you detailed advice on care and housing.

If someone seems reluctant to share that information, it’s best to look elsewhere.

What Should You Know Before Getting a Salamander in the UK?

Before bringing a salamander home, you should understand what kind of care it needs. These aren’t casual pets. They are delicate, and their needs are very specific.

Special Care Requirements

Most salamanders need a cool, damp environment with high humidity. They don’t like bright lights or dry air. Many require a mix of land and water, while others are either fully aquatic or fully terrestrial.

Your setup should include:

• A tank with plenty of hiding spots
• Moist substrate like damp moss or coconut fiber
• Shallow, clean water (dechlorinated)
• Live insects like crickets, worms, or tiny grubs
• A gentle light cycle and steady temperatures

Salamanders are also escape artists. You’ll need a tank with a secure lid and good ventilation. Some can climb glass or squeeze through small openings, so take that into account.

Temperature and Housing in the UK Climate

Fortunately, the UK’s mild climate works in your favor. Many salamander species prefer cooler temperatures, especially those from Europe and North America.

That means you probably won’t need a strong heat source, unlike with reptiles.

Still, you should avoid placing the enclosure near radiators, windows, or drafty areas. A consistent, cool room with low light and minimal disturbances is best.

Humidity can drop indoors, especially during winter. You may need to mist the enclosure daily to keep the air moist. Some keepers use foggers or humidity gauges to monitor conditions more accurately.

Even though salamanders are small, their care takes planning and daily attention. They are quiet pets, but they rely on you for everything.

Are Salamanders Available Online in the UK?

Yes, you can buy salamanders online in the UK. Several exotic pet forums, breeder websites, and amphibian hobbyist groups regularly list salamanders for sale. But you need to be careful.

Look for breeders that provide detailed photos, care advice, and background information.

Ask where the animal was bred and how old it is. A good seller will have nothing to hide.

Avoid sites that offer animals with no information, ship in unsafe containers, or offer bulk discounts on live animals.

These are warning signs of low-quality or unethical trade.

If possible, buy locally or arrange to see the salamander before purchase. This reduces stress on the animal and gives you a better idea of its health and behavior before you bring it home.

Conclusion

Yes, you can get salamanders in the UK, but only in the right way. The UK has native amphibians, including newts, which are a type of salamander.

You may also encounter rare fire salamanders in specific areas. However, wild salamanders and newts are protected by law and should never be taken from nature.

If you want a salamander as a pet, your best option is to buy one from a reputable breeder or exotic pet shop.

Make sure it’s captive-bred, legally sourced, and properly cared for.

Set up the right tank, understand the animal’s needs, and follow UK laws on ownership and biosecurity.