Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Ok, first off i'm totally new to salamanders. My son just (as in 15 min ago) found a salamander or newt on our front walk. I live in the country in Ontario, Canada. It's very wet here tonight and temps in the 50's and dropping. Ok, enough of the weather report.... so he brings in this salamander and wants a container for it. I'm not opposed to bringing things into the house as long as he only keeps it to observe for a few days and then releases it. So, um, now what? We've got it in a large plastic container with a lid. We put water in there (just enough to keep him wet) and some grass and a few rocks. I don't want to hurt this little guy so I'd appreciate any info. He's approx. 5" and very dark brown/black on his back with bluish-grey spots on his belly. It looks like his toes might have yellow spots on them. I DO NOT PLAN on keeping this little guy but think he's kinda cool to look at... for now. Thanks again for any info anyone can give into making sure we don't cause this guy too much stress. L.
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0.0.1 Bearded Dragon (Eddie)
2.0.0 Dogs (Black German Shepherd-Nicholas, Black Lab-Cooper)
1.1.0 Budgies (Kia and Simon)
0.0.1 ?Fiddler Crab (Crusty)
0.0.25 Various Fishies (Freshwater)
2.1.0 Hubby and kids (Boy and a Girl)

well first the lid on the lid on the container sjould have holes in it and the water should be dechlorinated or it will die it you let the water sit overnight the chlorine will evaporate they eat worms,fish,bugs and stuff and the temputures
should be about 70 degrees f*

hope that helps

Brandon

Thanks,,, we, picked up a book at the library today,, they seem pretty easy to keep,,, for a few days anyways. Thanks for the info. L.
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0.0.1 Bearded Dragon (Eddie)
2.0.0 Dogs (Black German Shepherd-Nicholas, Black Lab-Cooper)
1.1.0 Budgies (Kia and Simon)
0.0.1 ?Fiddler Crab (Crusty)
0.0.25 Various Fishies (Freshwater)
2.1.0 Hubby and kids (Boy and a Girl)

HI THERE:

I live very close to Ontario, so I know very much about the local salamanders. You have either uncovered a slimy salamander or a "lead back" phase of the red-backed salamander. Keep the PH level of the substrate as neutral as possible, and if you are using a water dish, put some rocks in it so he can climb out. Provide large chunks of rotting wood, many leaves and ground cover. Mist the vivarium lightly each day. Feed him small mites and flightless fruit flies. Do not handle! These guys are very delicate! Enjoy!

DAVE