The spotted salamander, ambystoma maculatum, is rather large as far as salamanders go. They measure 7 inches (18 centimeters) long on average, but have been known to reach up to 9 inches (23 centimeters) in length. They are bluish black or grey in color, with 2 rows of uneven, yellow or orange spots than extend from the head to their tail. Every individual’s spot pattern is unique, with some only having a couple of spots in all. Their skin is very sensitive to air pollution, meaning that seeing them is a good indicator of the quality of that particular habitat.
The spotted salamander can be found in both the eastern United States and eastern Canada. They will often inhabit moist, low-lying forests that are near floodplains, but can also survive in mountainous regions as well. They are very secretive creatures, spending most of their lives hiding under rocks or logs or in the burrows of other forest animals. In fact, the only time these animals will leave their hiding spots is to either feed or mate. Being nocturnal, they will rest during the day and emerge at night to go out and hunt. They spend the coldest winter months hibernating in mammal burrows.
The diet of a spotted salamander consists of just about anything that they can catch and swallow. This includes worms, slugs, insects, spiders and even millipedes. A spotted salamander has several predators that it must be on the lookout for including snakes, raccoons, squirrels, opossums, turtles, skunks and even chipmunks. Whenever they feel threatened, they will secrete a mild, sticky and noxious toxin from glands on their backs and tails. This toxin keeps most predators at bay while the spotted salamander makes its escape.
Breeding season for the spotted salamander takes place in early spring. Adults will migrate to breeding ponds (which they return to year after year) during periods of warm spring rains or heavy snowmelt. Males and females will perform a nuptial dance inside the breeding pond. Males will lay spermatophores on the pond’s bottom and females will position themselves over the spermatophores and grasp them with their cloaca, fertilizing them internally. Females will lay up to 200 eggs, with each one being encased in a jelly-like coating (some are clear while others are clouded, although the reason why is unknown). The eggs are attached to twigs or other underwater structures and will hatch after 31 to 56 days. The parents will migrate away from the breeding pond to give their offspring a better chance at survival. The offspring come out as larvae and will eventually undergo a metamorphosis that changes them into their classic, spotted salamander look. If the little ones can survive long enough, then they can live to be up to 30 years (although 20 is average).
The spotted salamander population is considered stable overall, but they are still facing some dangerous threats such as the loss of their natural habitat. Another concern is their popularity as pets, leaving them open to exploitation. Hopefully, they can overcome their obstacles and continue to live peacefully with people. After all, such a unique amphibian deserves to live and prosper far into the future.
