Species from seven of the families live in the United States. Most salamanders mate and lay their eggs in water but otherwise live on land. They tend to dwell in rotten logs, under rocks, in caves, and in other cool, dark, moist places. However, mudpuppies and some other species spend their entire lives in water, and a few species never enter water at all. The body of a salamander.
Most salamanders have moist, dark skin and are difficult to see in their natural environment.
A number of species, however, are brightly colored. Some of these species secrete a milky fluid through the skin when handled roughly or when in danger. This fluid is poisonous to some animals. Salamanders have a long tail that is used for swimming. Most species have four legs, but a few that live in water lack hind legs.