Are Newts Reptiles?

Eastern Newt Notophthalmus viridescens next to a pond

On a rainy evening, you might see a small creature slipping through the grass or swimming in a pond. Its body looks long and smooth, with a tail moving like a little paddle. At first glance, it looks a lot like a lizard. This brings up a common question: are newts reptiles? No, newts are … Read more

Are Newts Lizards?

Eastern Newt red eft

On damp nights, you might notice a small creature moving slowly under a log or swimming in a pond. At first, it looks like a tiny lizard with smooth skin and a long tail. But then you stop and wonder: are newts actually lizards? No, newts are not lizards. Newts are amphibians, closely related to … Read more

Are Newts Protected?

Eastern Newt Notophthalmus viridescens swimming in water

Newts look small and harmless as they move through ponds, streams, and damp forests. Yet their quiet lives hide a bigger question: are these little amphibians actually protected by law? Yes, many newts are legally protected, but the rules change depending on where you live and which species you find. Some newts are common and … Read more

Can A Salamander Regrow A Leg?

Arboreal Salamander Aneides lugubris on a brown leaf

Salamanders are small, quiet amphibians that have amazed people for centuries. The thing they are most famous for? They can regrow lost body parts. Most animals can’t do that. So you might wonder: can a salamander really regrow a leg? Yes, a salamander can regrow a leg after it has been lost. Salamanders are one … Read more

How Often Do Baby Salamanders Eat?

Blue-spotted salamander larva

Many people who keep salamanders as pets, or see them in the wild, often wonder how often baby salamanders need to eat. Feeding is very important for their growth and health. But it can be tricky to know how much and how often to feed them. Baby salamanders usually need to eat very often, sometimes … Read more

Do Baby Salamanders Have Legs?

California Newt Taricha torosa larva 2

Many people wonder if baby salamanders have legs when they hatch. You might see tiny amphibians in ponds or streams that look like small fish or tadpoles and ask the same thing. Yes, baby salamanders have legs much earlier in their life compared to other amphibians like frogs. How Do Salamanders Begin Life? Salamanders lay … Read more

How Do Salamanders Defend Themselves?

Eastern Newt Notophthalmus viridescens red eft on forest floor 1

Salamanders are soft-bodied, quiet animals that live in damp forests, near water, and hidden underground. They may look fragile and slow, but these animals are far from helpless. Salamanders protect themselves through poisonous skin secretions, camouflage, sudden movement, tail dropping, and bluffing that scares or confuses predators. These tricks help them escape from birds, snakes, … Read more

What To Do If You Find A Salamander

Spotted Salamander on a leaf

Salamanders are quiet, secretive amphibians that many people rarely see. But if you are lucky enough to find one, it’s natural to wonder how you should act. If you find a salamander, it’s best to watch it without disturbing its home, avoid handling unless necessary, and if moved, return it safely to a nearby moist … Read more

How Long Do Salamander Eggs Take To Hatch?

Long-toed Salamander egg mass close to hatching

Salamanders have a fascinating life cycle that begins with their eggs. These eggs are laid in water or in moist places, depending on the species. The time it takes for salamander eggs to hatch can vary widely. Salamander eggs usually hatch between two and six weeks after being laid, but the exact time depends on … Read more

How To Repel Salamanders

Northern Slimy Salamander Plethodon glutinosus 1

Salamanders are quiet, secretive amphibians often found near cool, damp places. While many people enjoy seeing them outdoors, some homeowners want to keep salamanders away from yards, gardens, or houses. To deter salamanders without causing harm, it helps to understand their habits and needs. Salamanders prefer moist, shaded environments and seek shelter in places that … Read more