Salamanders are amphibians that are similar to lizards and breathe through mucous membrane glands found in the mouth, throat and skin. Salamanders can usually be found in moist, damp and wet habitats because the salamander's skin must remain moist and slippery in order to breathe.
Step
Step 1. Tour the geographic environment where salamanders usually live
One-third of all salamander species are found in North America – primarily the Appalachian Mountains region, while another two-thirds are found in Central America, South America, Asia and Europe.
Step 2. Take some time in the spring to look for salamanders
Most salamanders live underground, but will emerge after the winter break in spring to lay eggs in shallow ponds that are only available in spring.
Step 3. Plan to look for salamanders at night, or when the weather is cloudy and rainy
Salamanders are nocturnal and can usually be found at night. However, these animals can also appear during the day when the weather is cloudy or rainy.
Step 4. Find in a soil location that is always moist
Examples of such locations are places near wetlands such as small streams, rivers, ponds, marshes and swamps.
Step 5. Look for debris on the ground such as rocks, fallen logs, twigs, and leaves near wet soil and ponds
Salamanders must keep their skin moist in order to breathe, and will hide behind objects to protect them from the sun.
Step 6. Gently flip the splinter to find the salamander
Movements that are done slowly and gently can prevent the salamander from getting scared and running to find another hiding place quickly.
Step 7. Put the debris back in its original place once you're done looking for the salamander
Any mess with rocks, logs and other debris can alter the humidity level and safety of the salamander's habitat.
Tips
- If you are planning to catch a salamander, then make sure that your hands are free of lotions, insect sprays and other chemicals that can harm the health of the salamander. Also, make sure to keep the salamander in a cool, damp environment and moisten its skin with water if necessary.
- If you don't live near the geographic area where the salamander is located, then you can see salamanders at your local zoo. Most zoos have a collection of salamanders to view in the snake and reptile home section. They can survive in artificially humid and humid environments.
- If you caught a salamander in the past, then try to search the same place to find other salamanders. Often, salamanders will return to places they are familiar with, especially where their eggs hatch.
