ognjenici
Ognjenici, also known as fire lizards or fire salamanders, are a group of small to medium-sized salamanders primarily found in the Balkans and parts of Central Europe. The term *ognjenici* is derived from the Croatian word for "fire," referring to their distinctive bright orange or red coloration, which serves as a warning to potential predators about their toxicity. These salamanders belong to the genus *Salamandra*, specifically the species *Salamandra salamandra*, though the name is sometimes colloquially applied to other fire-colored amphibians in the region.
Ognjenici are nocturnal creatures, spending the day hidden under rocks, logs, or in moist soil to avoid
Breeding typically occurs in early spring, with females laying clusters of eggs in freshwater habitats such
Conservation status varies by region, but ognjenici face threats from habitat destruction, pollution, and climate change.