After spotting a curious, wiggling animal at the pet shop, you may be wondering if salamanders make suitable pets. Excellent question, and to be honest, it’s not strange at all. These tiny amphibians are quite fascinating, somewhat adorable, and most definitely not your typical pet. However, there are certain things you should definitely know before you go out and get a salamander simply because it looks great. For example, are they simple to take care of? Are you able to hold them? Do they consume pizza or bugs? Now let’s explore the slimy yet pleasantly fascinating world of salamander pets.
What is a Salamander?
Salamanders are not lizards, to start. Since many people confuse them, let’s address that today. Since they are amphibians rather than reptiles, they resemble frogs and newts more. They frequently have really soft, fragile skin that actually breathes, and they adore moist environments—how crazy is that? Because of this, you must be extremely cautious when touching them because their skin absorbs toxins swiftly.
Are Salamanders Good Pets?
Now, let’s go right into the writing’s main points. Yes, but it depends, is the succinct response. For the appropriate individual, they can make wonderful pets. Yes, salamanders can be a great choice if you like creating habitats, observing animals in action, and are okay with staying away from your pet for too long. However, a salamander may disappoint you if you’re searching for a cute, interacting pet that you can take with you and display off to friends.
Salamander as a Pet (Pros)
1. Super Low Maintenance (Sort of)
Salamanders are quite laid back in contrast to, say, dogs or cats. They won’t chew your shoes, they don’t require walks, and they don’t meow or bark at two in the morning. Feeding and cleaning are the main daily maintenance tasks after you have properly set up their tank, which is crucial. A few times a week is all that some species require in terms of feeding.
2. Unique and Cool-Looking
The colors and patterns of salamanders are incredibly diverse. Some of them have the appearance of characters straight out of a cartoon. A salamander is an excellent conversation starter if you’re like strange creatures that spark people’s curiosity.
3. Great for Observation
Salamanders can be really fulfilling if you’re the kind of person who enjoys simply seeing creatures go about their daily lives. They move in peculiar ways, have strange tiny behaviors, and some even glow when exposed to UV light. Yes, indeed. A live glow stick, perhaps.
Cons of Having Salamanders as Pet
1. Not Really for Handling
This is a significant issue. Because of their extremely sensitive skin, salamanders can be harmed by excessive touching. Your hands are covered with lotions, oils, and other invisible substances that could harm them. Therefore, perhaps acquire a hamster instead if you were hoping to hug one on the couch.
2. They Need Specific Environments
Simply throwing the salamander in a fishbowl with some dirt and calling it a day is not enough. They require a terrarium that is properly set up with the right humidity, temperature, and hiding places. Some, particularly the aquatic ones, even require water features. Although it’s not complicated, it’s also not simple.
3. They Can Be Kind of Shy
There are animals that are extremely secretive. For example, during the day you may not even see them. They will only emerge at night and hide behind leaves or in logs. Therefore, this could be a disappointment if you’re looking for a pet that is constantly on the go.
Best Types of Salamanders
“Yeah I believe I want one,” is still a good statement. However, don’t pick up any salamander at random. Some are more suitable for novices than others. Here are several that are suitable for beginners:
- Large, resilient, and quite understanding if your first exposure to amphibians is the tiger salamander.
- The Fire Salamander Lovely markings that aren’t too hard to maintain (albeit not always permitted).
- Although they aren’t quite salamanders in the traditional sense, axolotls are related and make entertaining aquatic pets.
However, really do your research. Some require very particular care, while others are protected or endangered.
Conclusion
Coming to our primary query, are salamanders suitable pets? To be honest? They certainly could be. Yes, salamanders may be gratifying and intriguing pets if you’re okay with a hands-off, watch-and-enjoy kind of pet and are prepared to put in the work to build the proper habitat. However, you might want to reconsider if you’re searching for a pet that requires less work or is more interactive.
Tips
- Before and after handling anything in their tank, wash your hands; nevertheless, avoid touching the salamander unless absolutely necessary.
- They detest being dry, so keep the humidity high.
- Give them live insects, such as worms or crickets. Yes, it’s disgusting. It’s a part of the agreement, though.
- Look! Each living thing has its own peculiarities and requirements.
