Salamanders are quiet animals that do not often show themselves. Their soft bodies and similar shapes make them hard to tell apart, even for people who study them. One common question is how to know if a salamander is male or female.
You can tell if a salamander is male or female by looking at body size, tail shape, cloaca shape , and behavior, especially during breeding season. These differences are usually small, so you might need patience or help from an expert.
Some salamander species show clear differences between males and females. Others look almost the same, which makes it harder to tell without knowing the species well.
Learning these signs can help you understand how they live and act.
Why Telling Sex Can Be Hard
Salamanders are not like birds or mammals with obvious differences between males and females. In many species, they are about the same size, color, and shape.
This is especially true outside breeding season, when hormones are not changing their bodies. Even when differences exist, they can be very subtle. Many salamanders hide under logs or are mostly active at night, making it even harder to see clues.
In captivity, it is a bit easier because you can see them more clearly and compare them. Still, you need a careful eye and attention to body shape, behavior, and the right timing.
Most people try to tell the sex during breeding season. That’s when males and females start acting differently. Watching at this time gives the best chance of a correct guess.
Cloaca Shape and Size
The most reliable way to tell male from female salamanders is by looking at the cloaca. This is the opening under the body, right before the tail. It is used for reproduction and waste.
In general:
- Males have a swollen, larger cloaca, especially during breeding season
- Females have a flatter, smoother cloaca with little swelling
- Males may show ridges or glands near the opening; females usually do not
The male’s cloaca gets bigger to help move spermatophores, which are little packets of sperm that males leave on the ground during courtship.
Looking at the cloaca means gently handling the salamander and checking a sensitive area. You must be very careful not to hurt or stress the animal.
This method is best for experienced keepers, researchers, or under guidance.
Body Size and Shape
In some salamanders, body size gives hints about sex. This is not a perfect way, but there are some trends:
- Females are often bigger and heavier, especially when carrying eggs
- Males tend to be slimmer with longer limbs
- Some aquatic males grow fin-like tails or crests during mating season
- Female bellies may swell as eggs develop
Research shows that in over half of salamander species, shows that in 56% of species, females are bigger than males, while in about 15%, males are the larger sex.
These differences are easier to see when you can compare several animals of the same age.
Juveniles are usually too young to tell. For example, in axolotls, males show swelling around the cloaca and look thinner, while females get rounder as they grow.
Tail Shape and Length
Tail shape can give clues, too. Male salamanders sometimes have longer or thicker tails than females. This helps with moving spermatophores and during mating.
Look for:
- A slightly wider tail base in males, where reproductive glands sit
- Tails tapering slowly in males, versus shorter, rounder tails in females
- Seasonal changes in tail shape, mostly in aquatic species
Tail shape alone rarely confirms sex, but it helps when combined with other signs.
Color and Markings
Some salamanders show breeding colors that tell males from females. Many, however, keep the same colors all year.
Hormones can make males brighter or change the skin during mating season.
Examples:
- Males may look more colorful near the head or sides
- Body parts like tail or limbs may darken temporarily
- Special spots or stripes may stand out more on males
Some species even show different glowing patterns under UV light. These signs fade after breeding. In captivity, you might only see them if the environment matches their natural conditions.
Behavior During Breeding
Behavior is one of the clearest signs. Male salamanders often do rituals to attract females and guide them to spermatophores.
These can include:
- Waving or moving the tail to spread pheromones
- Nudging or circling to guide the female over the sperm
- Head bobbing, push-ups, or arching the body
Females are usually more passive. They follow, watch, and pick up the sperm. Males are often more active and visible.
If you put two salamanders together, you can sometimes see these behaviors. Do this carefully, only with compatible species, and watch for stress or fights.
DNA or Lab Testing
In labs, DNA tests or internal exams can confirm sex. These are accurate but not needed for most pet owners. They are invasive, need special tools, and are mainly for research, breeding, or conservation.
For hobbyists, watching visual signs during breeding season is usually enough. Looking at cloaca, body shape, tail, color, and behavior together can give a good guess.
Mistakes happen, and some salamanders are hard to tell. When unsure, ask an expert.
When Can You Tell the Sex?
Young salamanders are hard or impossible to sex. Most differences show only when they reach adulthood, which can take months or years depending on the species.
- Small species grow up in 6 to 12 months
- Larger land species take 2 to 4 years
- Aquatic species like axolotls mature in 12 to 18 months
Until then, males and females look very similar. Guessing too early often leads to mistakes. Waiting until maturity and checking the signs above is the safest way. Experienced breeders can help.
Why It Matters
Knowing if a salamander is male or female helps in many ways. For pet owners, it stops unwanted breeding and helps with care.
For scientists, it helps track populations, mating, and health.
Even if you just want to enjoy them, knowing the sex gives you a better understanding of how they live and act.
Can Males and Females Live Together?
Sometimes yes, but it depends on species and space. Some get aggressive during mating. Others can live together if you give enough hiding spots.
Tips:
- Keep same-sex pairs to avoid breeding
- Use separate tanks if fighting happens
- Never mix species, even if they look alike
- Watch for signs of dominance or stress
Some keepers house males and females together outside mating season. Separation is often needed when eggs are present. Flexibility keeps salamanders safe.
Conclusion
Telling if a salamander is male or female is not simple. You need patience, species knowledge, and attention to details.
By checking cloaca, body shape, tail, colors, and breeding behavior, you can often make a good guess. Mistakes happen, and even experts may disagree.
Knowing the sex helps with breeding, care, and understanding these quiet, fascinating creatures. Male or female, salamanders add a rare and peaceful presence to the natural world.
Hi, my name is Ezra Mushala, i have been interested animals all my life. I am the main author and editor here at snakeinformer.com.