A black and yellow spotted salamander, identified as *Salamandra salamandra*, is positioned on a forest floor in the Shumen Plateau Nature Park, Shumen, Bulgaria

A black and yellow spotted salamander, identified as *Salamandra salamandra*, is positioned on a forest floor in the Shumen Plateau Nature Park, Shumen, Bulgaria. The salamander, approximately 15-20 cm in length, displays irregular yellow blotches and spots against a glossy black integument. Its head is oriented towards the upper-left quadrant of the frame. The surrounding environment consists of a dense, uneven layer of dry, brown deciduous leaves, with some appearing damp. Several small, dark brown twigs are present among the foliage, and minimal green vegetation is visible in the background to the left. The scene is illuminated by natural, diffused light.