Question: Found what looks to be a Ambystoma maculatum in a basement during the winter. Need advice!

[TLeaf]

While at a friend's house, that friend found what looks to be a Ambystoma maculatum walking around in her basement. Her basement is where her cats play and I did not want to risk releasing the little one back where she found it, where it would possibly become a cat toy. We live in the Hudson Valley of NY and it is winter (currently there is a little snow on the ground). Now it is in a plastic container with a bit of non chlorinated water and am not sure what the best course of action would be. I have a few questions that if you have the time, could possibly answer.

After doing a little research, I read that these salamanders return to the same vernal pools every year. I brought the salamander to my house which is five minutes away from my friend's where we found it. I would like to release it in the same general area where we found it so as to not disrupt it's life and breeding habits in the future.

Should I wait until a warm day comes around and release it?

Should I keep it until spring and then release it?

It expelled feces while in my care (well formed and rounded), so does that mean it has and should be eating?

What should I be doing to ensure it's comfort, health and happiness?

Thank you very much for your time. I understand this is a forum and not posting pictures is a big no-no, lol. As soon as a friend with a decent camera comes over, I will be sure to share.

Thank you for your time!
Best Regards,
Thom

 

[Greatwtehunter]

You'll want to keep it seperated from all other critters and release it as soon as possible and as close as possible to the original capture site. They do very well in the cold so you'll just need to find a snow free area to release it.

You might want to check local laws first. Some states prohibit releasing animals once they been taken into captivity while some give you a limited time frame (we have 4 weeks here in VA) to release them.

 

[TLeaf]

You'll want to keep it seperated from all other critters and release it as soon as possible and as close as possible to the original capture site. They do very well in the cold so you'll just need to find a snow free area to release it.

You might want to check local laws first. Some states prohibit releasing animals once they been taken into captivity while some give you a limited time frame (we have 4 weeks here in VA) to release them.

Thank you very much for taking the time to respond. I will do just as you have instructed and be sure to check with my local laws to see if release is still doable.

Best Regards,
Thom