Fire Salamander

Distribution: From the Iberian Peninsula to Iran, North Africa to Northern Germany Size: 15‒30 cm Weight: 19.1 g (average) Life Span: 24 years (captivity) Diet: Carnivorous Social life: Solitary IUCN red list status: Least Concern The fire salamander is a visually striking amphibian, easily recognized by its vivid yellow or orange spots and stripes contrasted against a deep black body. These bright markings extend along its body and tail, which is nearly as long as its torso, and serve as a warning to potential predators about its toxic defenses. Large glands located behind the eyes and along its body secrete neurotoxins, which the salamander can even spray to deter threats. Primarily nocturnal, fire salamanders are most active at night. During the day, they rest under logs, rocks or in humid crevices to conserve moisture. However, on rainy days, they may emerge more freely, as moisture conservation becomes less critical. Fire salamanders typically inhabit woodlands, especially areas with ample shade and nearby ponds or streams for breeding. In particularly hot and dry periods, they may enter a state of hibernation. Fire salamanders are viviparous, meaning they give birth to live young, which the females release into shallow bodies of water, such as brooks. This reproductive strategy involves the young developing within the body of the mother before being born.