SUPER SURPRISE THURSDAY # 13

SUPER SURPRISE THURSDAY# 13

Is it hot in here on this Super Surprise Thursday? We have a hot little amphibian for today’s animal! Ok, they’re not really hot to the touch, but they are toxic! Are you ready to meet this little guy? Come on…

MEET THE FIRE SALAMANDER!

Range/Habitat: Europe/forests, woodlands, mountains

Diet:  Carnivore: slugs, insects, worms

Length: 7-11”

Conservation Status: Common

Fun Facts:

• Fire Salamanders have warning coloration. Their bright yellow or orange spots warn predators that they are poisonous.
• They have poisonous glands behind the eyes and on other parts of their body. They secret toxins when threatened.
• They are amphibians. They live part of their lives in water and part of it on land.
• Fire salamanders often hide under moss, leaves, limbs and stones.
• They are nocturnal (active at night).
• Fire salamanders spend the winter underground.
• They are known to have long life spans, up to 55 years old! Hello, grandpa salamander!

Fire salamanders are a great little amphibian! They sure are pretty with their shiny black bodies and bright yellow spots! Those beautiful colors are great at warning off predators too! Aren’t animals great?