The Spectacled Salamander: when threatened, this salamander curls its body into a defensive pose that exposes the aposematic markings on the underside of its tail and legs
Salamandrina perspicillata, commonly known as the northern spectacled salamander or Savi's salamander, is a peculiar species that can be found only in Italy.
Above: the northern spectacled salamander assuming a defensive pose
When the salamander feels threatened, it will often deploy a defense mechanism known as the unken reflex -- it curls its tail up over its body and arches its back, exposing the bright red markings that run along the underside of its tail, legs, and cloaca.
Above: gaze upon the belly of the beast
These aposematic markings serve as a warning to potential predators by signalling that the salamander is noxious or unpalatable.
Above: this guy might be trying a little too hard
The males of this species have also been known to stand in an upright position while searching for a mate, using their tails to support themselves as they stand on their hind legs.
Above: a male standing in an upright position
The northern spectacled salamander is quite small, with a total length of just 80-90mm (about 3 to 3.5 inches) from the tip of its nose to the end of the tail. According to this article:
It prefers cool, shady habitats rich in natural refuges: broadleaf woodlands, moist valleys, and stream edges with little current. It can be found among leaf litter, under logs and stones, in rock crevices, caves, and natural cavities.
It is especially connected to microhabitats with abundant vegetation cover and the presence of temporary water reservoirsâenvironments that ensure the survival of both terrestrial adults and aquatic larvae
Above: the females laying their eggs underwater
The adult males are completely terrestrial, dwelling only on land, but the females lay their eggs underwater. The hatchlings then remain in the water for 2-4 months before emerging onto land.
The Salamanders of Europe, Asia, and Northern Africa: The Northern Spectacled Salamander
Herpeto Savona: Salamandrina perspicillata
Newts and Salamanders of Europe: Unken Reflex
Illustrated Encyclopedia of Wildlife: Spectacled Salamander
The Tailed Amphibians of Europe: Genus Salamandrina
Field Guide to the Reptiles and Amphibians of Britain and Europe: Natural Enemies and Defense
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