The Spectacled Salamander: when threatened, this salamander curls its body into an aposomatic defensive position that exposes the 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 in its defensive position
When the salamander feels threatened, it often displays 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. These aposomatic markings serve as a warning to potential predators by signalling that the salamander is noxious or unpalatable.
Above: gaze upon the belly of the beast
When it curls itself into that defensive pose, the salamander's tail and body often form a complete loop, with the tail draping over its nose.
Above: this guy might be trying a little too hard
The males of this species have also been known to assume an upright position while searching for a mate, standing on their hind legs and using their tails to support themselves.
Above: the photo at the top shows a male northern spectacled salamander standing on his hind legs, while the photo at the bottom shows a female in a more typical pose
The northern spectacled salamander is a very small species, with a total length of just 80-90mm (about 3 to 3.5 inches) from the tip of its nose to the end of its 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, old dry-stone walls, caves, and natural cavities.
It is especially connected to microhabitats with abundant vegetation cover and the presence of temporary water reservoirs—environments that ensure the survival of both terrestrial adults and aquatic larvae.
The adult males are completely terrestrial, dwelling only on land, but the females nest and 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
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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