my mom not so keen on getting a salamander or newt…so one that's very low maintenence… thanx
Tiger and marbled salamanders are both easy. These are related, so the care's the same.
They can be kept in a large "critter container" or a 10 gallon tank. Both like to burrow, so I like shredded coconut bark for them – about 2 inches deep. They like humid conditions, so I keep the stuff moist, but not wet and mist every few days. I also keep a water dish in the tank – they don't drink the water, but it helps with the humidity and they usually burrow under it. They like cool temperatures and are nocturnal – they come out at night – so they don't need lights. They will eat crickets, worms, and other small insects (no lightning bugs – they're toxic!). These shouldn't be handled, but neither should any salamander/newt. A screen over the tank is a good idea – they can climb, and so can some of the things they eat, so your mom will be happy if they stay put. Both species will cost around $20-25.
I have a marbled and she's a great pet. I don't see her except at night or when I clean her tank, though. (Yes, I know it's a she – females of this species are silver and black, males are white and black!)
Tiger and marbled salamanders are both easy. These are related, so the care's the same.
They can be kept in a large "critter container" or a 10 gallon tank. Both like to burrow, so I like shredded coconut bark for them – about 2 inches deep. They like humid conditions, so I keep the stuff moist, but not wet and mist every few days. I also keep a water dish in the tank – they don't drink the water, but it helps with the humidity and they usually burrow under it. They like cool temperatures and are nocturnal – they come out at night – so they don't need lights. They will eat crickets, worms, and other small insects (no lightning bugs – they're toxic!). These shouldn't be handled, but neither should any salamander/newt. A screen over the tank is a good idea – they can climb, and so can some of the things they eat, so your mom will be happy if they stay put. Both species will cost around $20-25.
I have a marbled and she's a great pet. I don't see her except at night or when I clean her tank, though. (Yes, I know it's a she – females of this species are silver and black, males are white and black!)
References :
http://www.wnyherp.org/care-sheets/amphibians/tiger-salamander.php
http://www.centralpets.com/animals/reptiles/salamanders/sal2543.html