Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I have an 8 year old, male, fire belly newt and I wanted to get another one but he's been alone all his life. I was wondering if he would be happier alone or with a buddy (I would probably get another male so they wont mate.) and if it wouldnt be a problem, would I be able to put one in thats half his size? because thats all I can seem to find in pet stores.

Thanks

It doesn't matter as they are not social outside of the breeding season. If you choose to add another one from a pet store make sure you quarantine it for at least 30 days and preferably longer.

Ed

My suggestion is to make sure that they are the same size. If you have a small newt and a big newt in confined in close quarters together, the smaller newt may get stressed just by being around the big one. The big one may also bully the small over food and territory.

Stress will make the animal unhappy, lethargic, secretive, and it may refuse to eat.

You gotta be careful. I had a firebelly that beat the heck out of a new tankmate. Chances are if you got another one it would be stressed from importation, carrying parasites, and entering you current newt's territory.

It's doubtful that these salamanders get lonely, and if he's been by himself for 8 years, he's used to it by now.

Tim

Third Eye

I guess I'll just leave by himself. If they'll both get stressed than there is no point. I just wanted him to be happy and thought he might be bored,but it sounds like he would be happier alone.

Thanks