Fire Salamander
What was once thought to grow out of fire and can grow their limbs back if they lose them? …..A Fire Salamander!
These critters not only look AWESOME, they have some amazing critter talents you won’t want to miss out on learning about!
Critter At A Glance
What makes them AWESOME? These salamanders have amazing orange and yellow markings on their backs, which people use to believe were born in actual fire. These critters can spray poison from their eyes to protect themselves. They also have toxins in their skin if any predators dare touch them. If this still isn’t enough to scare away a predator, these salamanders can break off a limb to escape and grow a brand new one back!
What do we know about their life cycle? Mother Fire Salamanders give birth to live young, which look just like mini versions of their parents. They have also been known to live a LONG time. One Fire Salamander lived for 50 years in captivity.
What do they need to survive? You can find them all through Europe near streams and ponds. They eat small slugs, worms, and insects. One of their biggest threats is a deadly fungus called Bsal. This fungus is dangerous to these critters because it makes it impossible for them to absorb oxygen through their skin or to eat.
What else can we learn from Cora?
Are you ready for an out of this world fact?
These critters remind me of FROGS. Fire salamanders are sometimes called lungless salamanders because their bodies take in oxygen through their moist, permeable skin.
Critter Protectors we need you to
join the CritterQ!
Today’s challenge is to make up your own story about a salamander and pond friends.
You can color it, tell the story live, or write it down. Can’t wait to hear them!
Click the PIC to PRINT!
Share your stories for a chance to be featured! #heymrjim
admin. “Fire Salamander Facts For Kids & Adults: Pictures, Information & Video.” Active Wild, 23 Jan. 2017, https://www.activewild.com/fire-salamander-facts/.
“Fire Salamander | San Diego Zoo Wildlife Explorers.” San Diego Zoo Wildlife Explorers, https://sdzwildlifeexplorers.org/animals/fire-salamander. Accessed 28 Apr. 2022.
“Fun Facts- Fire Salamander BIO-203.” BioWeb Home, http://bioweb.uwlax.edu/bio203/s2013/stoltz_laur/facts.htm. Accessed 28 Apr. 2022.