How to Care for a Salamander

There is general care and specific care for salamanders depending on their species. A salamander by definition is an amphibian with a tail that doesn't have claws or ear openings. All newts are salamanders but not all salamanders are newts. If you are going to own a salamander you should also research the species for specific care instructions.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Build a habitat for your salamander. Replicate the outdoor environment that it lives in to the best of your ability. Use a plastic or glass tank with a fitted lid because salamanders can climb. Since most salamanders like humid environments it is not a good idea to use a screened or mesh top. A solid plastic top with 1/4 inch air holes is the best choice.

2. Leave the salamander alone in his new habitat for a few days when you first bring him home. He will do best in a dark, quiet area. This will give him time to adjust to his new surroundings.

3. Feed a proper diet for the species you own. Most salamanders are carnivorous and will eat insects. You can purchase insects or gather them yourself.

4. Monitor the shedding of skin. Salamanders shed their skin on regular intervals of days, weeks or months depending on the species. If a piece of the skin gets stuck and does not shed it can restrict blood flow. Soak the stuck skin in tepid water and gently massage to remove.

5. Handle salamanders very carefully, if at all. Again, be sure to research the species that you own before handling. Some salamanders have very fragile skin and cannot survive being handled. Others produce toxic secretions that can be irritating to human skin. All salamanders need to be handled gently and carefully.

Tips & Warnings

• If you gather insects for your salamander, be careful that you are not feeding him bugs that have been exposed to pesticides. After gathering the insects, keep them in a container for a few days. Put dog food or flake fish food in the container for them to eat. Any that have been exposed to poisons will die and those that are healthy will fill up on food that is also healthy for your salamander. Never feed dead insects to the salamander.