Tiger Salamander - Edge and James

There are 12 species of Tiger Salamander varying from dark brown and black to olive green and yellow.

They are one of the worlds largest land dwelling salamander species.

They can be found in temperate woodland and lay between 175 – 250 eggs.

Tiger Salamanders can become quite tame, being less shy than some of their smaller relatives.

The previous owners of “James” taught him to come to his name for feeding!

In the wild the Tiger Salamanders’ habitat covers a wide range of areas extending nearly coast to coast in North America.

Tiger Salamanders are the largest and have a broad, rounded snout and small eyes. The background colour is black, brown, or olive, with scattered yellow or brownish blotches, spots, and streaks over the head, back, and tail.

Tiger Salamanders inhabit woodlands, meadows, marshes, and suburban areas, spending most of their time in burrows underground.

They eat insects, worms, slugs, snails, and smaller salamanders.

Just like frogs Salamanders begin their life in an egg attached to a group of other eggs, sometimes up to 120! Then they hatch and in their larval stage and have long feathery external gills, which slowly disappear, as they become an adult.

Edge arrived here on 16th January 2001. He came to us from a private collection, who were unable house him any more.

He is 9 years old can live over 20 years!

Tiger Salamanders are bold and can become quite tame, Edge frequently comes out to have a look around and sometimes to meet people.

Fortunately Tiger Salamanders are not endangered but like many species the illegal pet trade threatens their future as does the loss of their natural habitat. With support like yours we can continue to give refuge to animals like Edge and ensure their success in the future. Thank you.