Rate my salamander setup.

[Aron W]

This is an enclosure I’ve made for my Ambystoma laterale based on information I could find on the species. (Not sure what type of moss it is, just used the kind in my yard near where I found the salamander)

 

[schmiggle]

Looks good! I'd cut the water bowl, but otherwise I have no complaints. Don't be alarmed if the moss eventually dies.

 

[Aron W]

Looks good! I'd cut the water bowl, but otherwise I have no complaints. Don't be alarmed if the moss eventually dies.

thanks for the feed back! Any particular reason why the water bowl is not good? Just wondering.

 

[schmiggle]

thanks for the feed back! Any particular reason why the water bowl is not good? Just wondering.

Mole salamanders probably won't use it, and there's a risk of drowning. I saw you added rocks, which is a great way to reduce that risk, but still, salamanders absorb water through their skins, not by drinking it. It's also a great spot for them to poop, so you're gonna have to constantly clean it out. Basically, it's probably harmless but won't add much, and it might be disadvantageous.

 

[viper69]

nice salamander!

 

[Aron W]

nice salamander!

Thanks!

 

[viper69]

This is an enclosure I’ve made for my Ambystoma laterale based on information I could find on the species. (Not sure what type of moss it is, just used the kind in my yard near where I found the salamander) View attachment 366217 View attachment 366218

I meant to ask you. how and when did you find this one. In one state at least, they are really hard to find. They are nocturnal for one, but rare in general. I've been looking for them on and off for a long time, no luck yet.

 

[Aron W]

I meant to ask you. how and when did you find this one. In one state at least, they are really hard to find. They are nocturnal for one, but rare in general. I've been looking for them on and off for a long time, no luck yet.

Found him in Knox county Ohio about a month ago. Just happened to look under a piece of plywood that was in our backyard, and sure enough he was under there. As far as them being rare I’ve only ever seen 3 in my life. Monty is the biggest at about 3~4 inches.

 

[schmiggle]

I think their more common in the Midwest, and also up pretty far north (not sure where you live, Viper). I wonder if they dig deeper underground than other mole salamanders.