The spotted salamander (Ambystoma maculatum) is an amphibian often found in wooded areas across eastern North America. Known for their striking appearance, these creatures frequently prompt questions about their potential toxicity. Understanding this is important for both human safety and the well-being of these animals.
The Nature of Their Toxicity
Spotted salamanders secrete toxic substances from glands in their skin. These glands, primarily along their backs and necks, release a milky, sticky liquid when the salamander feels threatened. The toxins are alkaloids, such as samandarine and samandarone.
These alkaloids deter predators, making the salamander unpalatable or causing irritation. If a predator like a snake, raccoon, or skunk ingests a salamander, the toxins can cause irritation, muscle paralysis, or illness, leading the predator to release it. While effective against many animals, these toxins are not lethal to humans through casual skin contact. However, direct contact with mucous membranes (eyes, nose, or mouth) or ingestion can cause irritation.
Recognizing a Spotted Salamander
Identifying a spotted salamander is straightforward due to its distinctive physical characteristics. Adults measure between 6 to 10 inches (15 to 25 cm) in total length, with females being larger than males. Their bodies are stout with a broad head and smooth, moist skin.
Their most notable feature is coloration: a dark background of black, dark gray, or bluish-black with two irregular rows of bright yellow or orange spots. These spots extend from the head to the tip of the tail. The underside is a paler slate gray.
What to Do When You Find One
When encountering a spotted salamander, observe it without direct contact. These amphibians are secretive, spending most of their lives underground and emerging primarily during rainy nights, especially in spring for breeding. Avoid handling them to protect both the salamander and yourself.
If it becomes necessary to move a salamander, such as from a road, handle it gently. Wear gloves or wet your hands thoroughly before touching them, as this protects their delicate skin and prevents the transfer of oils or substances from your hands. After any contact, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before touching your face or consuming food. Keep pets away from salamanders.
Their Place in the Ecosystem
Spotted salamanders play a significant role in their forest ecosystems. They inhabit mature forests, often near temporary bodies of water known as vernal pools, which are important for their breeding. These pools dry up during parts of the year, preventing fish populations that would prey on salamander eggs and larvae.
As adults, their diet consists of various invertebrates found on the forest floor, including earthworms, slugs, snails, spiders, millipedes, and insects, which they capture using their sticky tongues. In turn, spotted salamanders serve as a food source for other animals like snakes, raccoons, skunks, and turtles. Their presence also indicates a healthy environment, as their permeable skin makes them sensitive to pollution and habitat changes.