Just got my first ever amphibian pet

[miller343434]

Just got my first fire salamander and im not really sure what im doing. Not sure how old it is but its about the length of my index finger. Its in a tank with a log to hide under, moss substrate and a water bowl. Ive got a box of crickets to feed it.
Was just wondering if theres anything special I need to be doing?
Also, it seems to hide a lot and when i put crickets near him he doesnt eat them (possibly while im not watching). Hes been in his tank for about 30 hours now and im wondering will he get less shy? Is he just settling in?

 

[Azhael]

Check out the caresheet for this species:
Caudata Culture Species Entry - Salamandra salamandra - Fire Salamander
They are crepuscular and nocturnal and they tend to be shy. Get used to it xD When they are out hunting they can become used to be fed with tweezers and even beg for food. the rest of the time they will ignore the hell out of you xD
Provide good ventilation, it prevents skin problems. Mist the tank as required to maintain the desired moisture (never allow the subtrate to go damp).
Crickets are fine, if you dust them, but earthworms are much better. You should find a place to get them or culture them yourself, but you will definitely need them. Waxworms may entice the animal to eat, they are pretty irresistible. Feed at dusk or at night, when humidity is high, that is when the salamander will be most receptive to food.

 

[miller343434]

thanks for the advice. I'm not sure if the log that ive put in there is a very good hide for him. would a toilet paper tube cut in half be ok? or would the chemicals in the cardboard be harmful?

 

[Bellabelloo]

I have an assortment of hides for mine. A coconut shell, broken flower pot, a piece of flat stone and some cork bark. They seem to prefer the areas with less head room, and will move between areas.
I wouldn't use the loo roll as it will absorb any dampness .

 

[miller343434]

I suppose you're right about the toilet paper. I've got another couple of things to ask. I got some crickets with him but I had trouble picking them up so bought worms instead. With either of these foods, even if I put them right in front of him he wont eat them. I was told today by the shop owner that they are shy and will rarely eat when fed straight away. What are yours like?
Also, he stays buried all of the time. He doesn't use the hides I've put in but just burrows down in the moss. Is this him just being very shy because he's not used to his new surroundings or is this normal? Is it ok to get him out of hiding or should I not disturb him?
I know I'm asking a lot of questions but I'm new to all this and don't want anything to go wrong.