How to Play With a Salamander

In order to have a salamander as a playmate, first you have to catch a salamander. Salamanders are sometimes amphibians that can survive either on land or in the water, and some live only in water. In or out of the water, they prefer dampness to dryness. So go looking for a salamander in a muddy area near water and you may find a playmate. Read on to learn how to find a salamander.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Look carefully for the salamander. They have camouflage colors and blend into their environment very well, usually. Salamanders dig little burrows in the mud along the banks of streams, or under logs and rocks, in which to hide and stay cool.

2. Be quick to catch a salamander. Salamanders move through mud fairly quickly and very quickly through water. They use their tails and short little legs to propel themselves.

3. Watch out. If you grab a salamander by the tail, you may wind up with just a wiggling tail in your hand. Salamanders can shed their tails as a survival measure. The tail continues to writhe for a short time in order to distract you while the salamander gets away, then the amphibian grows a new tail.

4. Play gently with the salamander. Harmless amphibious salamanders secrete a thick layer of mucus to keep their skin from drying out while they are out of the water, so you probably won't want to touch it or hold it for very long.

Tips & Warnings

• Amphibious salamanders can survive out of water for many days, but their skin will harden and form a protective shell, so you might think they are sick, but they are actually going into hibernation.
• Salamanders are fun for kids to look at and feel. Most of the amphibious ones are harmless, so it's fine to handle them a little, but put them back where you found them so they can go about their business.
• Use caution. Some salamanders give off a secretion on their skin that is poisonous to the touch. The poisonous ones are usually a bright color or with colorful markings, so don't invite those to be your playmate.
• It's a good idea to wash your hands after handling a salamander.

Resources

• Detailed Information About North American Salamanders