Tiger Salamanders/Mud puppies

[kreamcheese]

I recently purchased some tiger salamander larvae online. I have kept some other species before and decided I wanted some tigers. When my pair arrived I quickly found out that I was sold some common mudpuppies. I contacted the seller and they instantly refunded all that I had paid and told me to either sell/keep/find a good home for these. I might hold on to these for a while if I can't find any actual tigers. Have the mud puppies set up in a 20 gal, filled nearly to the top with a secure lid. (Started as a half water half land set up until I realized these will never morph).

My question: Where can I purchase either tiger salamanders or tiger salamander larvae?

I live in San Diego and one seller had told me that they were illegal here? But I've done some research and others are saying they aren't illegal..All I want is a pair of Tiger Salamanders and I never would have imagined it being this difficult to obtain.

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

 

[Jennewt]

It's true: tiger salamanders (and all other members of the Ambystoma family) are 100% illegal to possess in the state of California. Enjoy your mudpuppies. They will probably need a larger tank at some point. If a terrestrial animal is more to your liking, there are other options that are not restricted in your state.

 

[Jennewt]

In answer to your next question, please read this:
Caudata.org Newt and Salamander Forum - Announcements in Forum : Axolotls (Ambystoma mexicanum)

 

[kreamcheese]

Thanks for the help. Really bummed that I can't get any tigers. What's the largest legal species I can get in California?

 

[Kaysie]

Dicamptodon are fairly similar to tiger salamanders in shape, but are harder to find (at least in the East). Fire salamanders also have a similar physical shape, but are a bit more shy than tigers.

 

[John]

I think you should post the name of the seller. Even if they did refund your money, you now have something you don't want.

 

[Kaysie]

Also, I would consider turning in to Fish & Game whoever was selling you illegal animals. Chances are they knew what they were doing was wrong, and did it anyway.