Salamanders are very secretive creatures. Due to this, several myths and legends have arisen about them over the centuries. Many ancient people believed that salamanders were fireproof and so cold-blooded that their bodies could extinguish the flames themselves. However, most of these legends are untrue. Salamanders are not fireproof and can not withstand fire. Being … Read more
Spotted salamanders are colorful amphibians found in parts of the eastern United States and Canada. These salamanders are easily identifiable by their bluish-black skin, and the beautiful yellow spots extending from their head to tail. But what do spotted salamanders eat? Spotted salamanders are opportunistic carnivores that will eat almost any prey that can fit … Read more
Mud salamanders are beautiful amphibians found across the Southeastern united states. These salamanders are known for their reddish-brown coloration with well-separated black spots on the back and sides. Mud salamanders are mildly poisonous. They have glands along the backside of their bodies that produce a toxic secretion as a defense against predators. This secretion is … Read more
Tiger salamanders are a popular pet due to their tame and non-aggressive nature. Like most salamanders, they are obligate carnivores, which means they eat prey instead of plants or vegetation. Tiger salamanders are opportunistic predators that will eat almost any prey they can fit into their mouths. Snails, slugs, earthworms, spiders, and insects make up … Read more
Many people know that salamanders need to be around water to keep their skins moist. But can salamanders swim? All salamanders can swim. However, some salamanders live a mostly terrestrial life and are not the strongest of swimmers. Salamanders typically begin their lives as aquatic larvae with gills for breathing in the water. As they … Read more
Bigger animals tend to live longer smaller animals (not always). Think about it- humans live longer than dogs, which live longer than rats, which live longer than bugs. However, when it comes to salamanders, this isn’t the case. Many salamander species have lifespans that far exceed those of much larger animals. Depending on the species, salamanders live … Read more
Red salamanders are strikingly beautiful amphibians found in the eastern united states. These salamanders are bright red and have extensive black spotting on the back and sides, hence their name. But are red salamanders poisonous? Red salamanders produce a milky secretion that makes them foul-tasting to predators. This secretion is mildly poisonous and may be … Read more