Western Tiger Salamander
Ambystoma mavortium
A stocky, ground-dwelling salamander of grasslands, shrublands, and open woodlands, often spending much of its life hidden in mammal burrows or loose soil. It emerges on damp nights to ambush insects, worms, slugs, and other small animals with a quick snap of its jaws. Breeding takes place in fishless ponds and temporary wetlands, where aquatic larvae grow before transforming. A notable defense is its sticky, bitter skin secretion, which helps discourage predators.
- Type
- Burrow
- Conservation status
- LC
Growth chain
- ?
- Western Tiger Salamander