About Jedediah Expertise I can answer questions concerning frogs (especially Poison Arrow Frogs), lizards such as geckos and bearded dragons, insects and invertebrates such as millipedes or land hermit crabs. I can give advice on housing, feeding, behaviour, breeding ect. I cannot answer questions about medical problems. If you suspect that your pet is sick, please see a herp vet with it ASAP.
Experience I keep various frogs, bearded dragons and a number of invertebrates. I am especially interested in the proper care of land hermit crabs and I'm always glad to give advice on this topic.
Question We live in Maine and have a pond and sometimes see large 8-10 inch black salamaders with yellow spots swimming in it. Recently my husband was doing some repairs on the steps and when he turned some earth that had been under the steps for years undesturbed he found several small 4" salamanders who appeared similar in the earth. These were about 50 feet from the pond. Is this a place where they would spend the winter? He tucked them carefully back in. They were quite lively. Another questions is how long do salamanders live. Thank you for you answer, a very uneducated but very curious nature lover.
Answer Dear Carol,
thank you for your question.
Yes, the salamanders probably chose that place under your steps to hibernate, it's a good thing your husband put them back where he found them.
Depending on their species, salamanders can reach a very old age. Five to ten years is the most common age, but some salamanders can reach an age of 20 years (the giant species found for example in China are known to reach an age of 70 years).
I hope I was of some help
Jennifer
