Stomach contents of a single adult Tiger salamander

[BackwtrReptiles]

Several weeks ago I was on a post-rain nature hike with my family and we came across a large Tiger salamander. I have a fishing license so I collected it for the kids to observe.

I have fond memories of growing up in the Midwest, finding Tigers after heavy rains and raising them in tanks. They'd dig fairly elaborate tunnels in the deep dirt I provided, and when I was lucky, they'd tunnel right against the glass so I could see them.

Anyhow, the following morning the Tiger salamander we collected had regurgitated a voluminous number of prey items. I knew they could eat a tremendous amount, but this surprised even me.

So, I immediately thought of this forum and that you might enjoy seeing the stomach contents.

Best regards,

Sam
Backwater Reptiles

 

[Chinadog]

Thanks for posting Sam, that's very interesting!
That was one hungry Tiger, I guess it was taking advantage of whatever crossed it's path after the hibernation and breeding season were over. The crab/crayfish claw is my favourite, it couldn't quite overpower the whole animal, so it ripped it's claw off and made do with that!

 

[ekocak]

Well that's impressive.

 

[stanleyc]

Really cool, anyone able to identify or make guesses at those salamander species?

 

[ndbug]

This was very interesting and educational thanks a lot! That dude eats like a champ!

 

[Otterwoman]

THis is one cool post. And knowing you didn't have to kill the salamander to get at his stomach contents is even cooler.

 

[Blackbun]

Very important observation which could inform the protection of vulnerable species.

 

[Jazzy says yarr]

First unidentified looks like a small river fish, the second is beaked? possible hatchling of some sort? That's a Lot of salamander snacks. This guy was straight up voracious.
Very interesting, and super cool