Posted by alex fass on February 14, 2008

Q: We found a salamander in our garage today under our car, I think it may have been caught in the tire. It seems not to be injured. We've had some signifigant flooding in our area - maybe it was washed out of its home. We had fun looking at it and attempting to identify it, but would now like to release it. I am concerned that the weather is too cold. The current temperature is below freezing. We think it is a leadback redback salamander. Can we release it outside in this cold weather? We live next to a lake and could place it near its edge, but the lake is currently frozen completely.

Thanks Cindy

Habitat: suburban/yard

State: New Jersey

Habitat: suburban/yard

A: Yes, you can release it back out into the cold, however you'll need to do it so the animal isn't where it gets the worst of the freezing temperature. I'd suggest finding a location that is on the moist side (at least when not frozen) and dig down a bit into the soil. You should be able to find unfrozen soil not far down and then loosely put soil and leaves over that. If you can then put a log or pile loose leaves over that area (carefully so you don't squash the animal) that will provide enough insulation so it can burrow into an area that it prefers. Be sure that you don't keep your animal warm - remember it's adapted for cold temps right now!! If you find the temp is just too cold to do any digging or you don't have the time right now, I'd get some moist leaves, put the salamander in a container and place in the refrigerator until you can put it back out. Sorry I don't have a pat answer for you but use your own judgement and you should be fine. Thanks for taking the time to care for this little guy. Best of luck.

John Wiessinger ( February 14, 2008)