Save the alpine salamander: This is how you help the endangered manner!

Save the alpine salamander: This is how you help the endangered manner!

Bayern, Deutschland - The Alpensalamander, a rare type of amphibian that occurs exclusively in the mountains of southern Germany, is increasingly threatened. Sightings of this fascinating animal are possible in the Alps from April to September, in the Alpine foothills in Bavaria and in the far southeast of Baden-Württemberg. The Nature Conservation Association LBV would like to learn more about the spread of the alpine salamander in order to develop better protective measures. Messages about sightings can be submitted via lbv.de/alpensalamander-projekt

The reproduction of the alpine salamander is remarkable: the animals do not put a spawn in water, but give birth to their descendants alive after a grower of two to four years. The alpine salamander reaches a size of 12 to 16 centimeters and is primarily nocturnal. In damp mountain forests at altitudes between 590 and 2100 meters, it finds its ideal habitat. The salamander can also be found in meadows above the tree line. Nevertheless, this type is faced with considerable threats that are primarily caused by human activities.

threats from human activities

The expansion of forest paths and streets has fatal consequences for the alpine salamander. Over 40 % of the proven animals have already been run over in certain paths. Long dry periods and the pressure through leisure activities, such as hiking and mountain biking, further exacerbate the situation. Especially during the activity phases, for example after sudden rainfall, the risk of the salamander increases significantly. Additional dangers assume that the skin fungus batrachochytrium Salamandrorans (Bsal), which is introduced from Asia, assumes, which primarily affects the fire salamander, but could also be a threat to the Alpine Sala. So far, however, no cases have been known that affect the Alpine Sala.

protective measures and initiatives

In order to reduce the dangers for the alpine salamander, various measures have been proposed. This includes reducing vehicle traffic on sensitive routes and night driving bans in well-known Alpine Salamander areas. In addition, the LBV calls for the public to raise awareness through signs, flyers and public relations. The expansion of the monitoring with volunteers is also considered essential to ensure the survival of the species.

The decline in numerous types of amphibians worldwide is worrying. The amphibian program therefore supports various protection projects that are intended to protect highly threatened species. Projects include direct protection activities, applied research and further training of specialist staff. The species protection has set up the "amphibian fund" to support suitable measures and to promote domestic biotopes.

It is crucial that the population is made aware of the threats of the Alpine SalaMand. Through reports about sightings and committed protective measures, we can contribute to the preservation of this unique type and secure your living space in the long term.