Were you aware that there are around 500 different species of salamanders found on our planet? While there are many salamanders to choose from, not all of them can be kept as pets at home. Some species are endangered, and as such, are protected by laws in certain areas. Below are some of the more common species that can be kept as pets.

Each species is typically found in a particular geographic location. For example, the Eastern Mud Salamander can mostly be found in muddy areas along the East Coast and cannot be found on the West Coast.

Ambystoma Tigrinum, commonly referred to as the Tiger Salamander, can grow up to 1 foot or more in length. These salamanders are characterized by yellow spots and stripes all over their bodies and are commonly found in certain areas of Mexico. They prefer to live on rocks and boulders in lowland and mountainous regions.

Ambystoma cingulatum, or the Flatwoods Salamander, is smaller than the Tiger Salamander, typically growing to about 1/3 of its size. This species is commonly found in the southwestern United States, and they prefer to live in pine forests and lay their eggs, which mature in 3-5 weeks.

Ambystoma gracile, or the Northwestern Salamander, is usually about halfway in size between the Tiger Salamander and the Flatwoods Salamander, growing to an average length of ½ foot. As their name suggests, they are primarily found in the northwestern part of the United States, as well as parts of Canada, specifically British Columbia. They prefer to live in moist, damp areas, unlike the Tiger Salamander, which prefers rocky terrain.

Ambystoma jeffersonianum, or the Jefferson Salamander, is similar in size to the Northwestern Salamander, reaching a length of about ½ foot. They are found in the northwestern part of the United States and Canada and prefer to live in water and forested areas. It takes about six months for their eggs to develop fully.

Ambystoma macrodatylum, or the Long-toed Salamander, primarily lives in the Northwestern United States and prefers to reside in green areas. Their eggs take about six months to develop, and the eggs usually mature within a year.

Some species of salamanders have intense color pigmentation, with males often having brighter color markings. Red Salamanders, for example, has a bright red color on their bodies, while salamanders with round black spots have translucent or white skin coloration. These salamanders are often found in caves and burrows.

Knowing the different species of salamanders can help you provide the appropriate care they need when keeping them as pets. Remember that each salamander species has specific requirements for its habitat and diet, but they all require equal care from their owner.