IDENTIFICATION

 

Size:                  A small sized salamander measuring 2.4 to 4.3 inches in

                           length with a highly laterally flattened tail.

 

Color:                The dorsum of the aquatic adult is olive-green in

                           coloration with black speckles and two rows of highly

                           conspicuous red spots bordered by black. The venter is

                           light yellow with dark speckles.

 

                           The terrestrial “eft” stage is bright orange to olive-brown

                           in coloration with two rows of red spots similar to that of

                           adults.            

 

Behavior:         Newts rely on their toxic skin secretions for defense.  If

                           directly  threatened they will display their bright venter by

                           posturing with their head and tails pointed upwards,

                           tightly closing their eyes.        

 

Habitat:            The terrestrial "eft" stage inhabits forests across the

                           state. Adults inhabit permanent water bodies in and

                           around forested habitats that lack or provide shelter from

                           predatory fish species.