The fire salamander is a striking black-and-yellow amphibian of European forests. It is one of the best-known salamanders in the world and now faces a serious disease threat.
Interesting facts
- Its bright yellow markings on black skin warn predators that it is toxic.
- It can squirt toxic secretions from glands on its back.
- Most females give birth to live larvae in streams rather than laying eggs.
- In some populations in Spain, females give birth to fully formed baby salamanders.
- The Bsal fungus, spread by the pet trade, has killed almost all fire salamanders in parts of the Netherlands.
- It is most often seen on rainy nights.
Behaviour
Fire salamanders are nocturnal and emerge on damp nights to hunt slugs and worms. They spend dry periods hidden under logs and rocks.
Breeding and young
Females carry developing larvae inside their bodies and release them into streams, where they grow for several months.
Threats and conservation
The Bsal fungus, habitat loss, road deaths and stream pollution.
Where to see it
- Black Forest and Harz Mountains, Germany
- Vienna Woods, Austria
- Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia
- Forests of the Pyrenees and Apennines after rain
Status source: IUCN Red List. Profile last reviewed September 2026.
