Red Spotted Newt
(Notophthalmus v. viridescens)
The Red Spotted Newt is a subspecies of the Eastern Newt. They generally range in size from 2.5 - 5.5 inches. They are usually brown or olive green with red or orange spots with black outlines on the back. The belly is generally a light yellow color black flecks.
In late winter or early spring the males begin to develop enlarged hind legs with black, horny outgrowths on inner thighs and tips of the toes. Their vents swell and tails become keeled. The females will lay 200 - 400 eggs singly underwater attached to plants. After 3 -8 weeks the 3/8 inch larvae and transform into adults in late summer or early fall.
Red Spotted Newts can be found in ponds with dense vegetation, steams, swamps, and wet forest areas. They feed on worms, insects, crayfish and even other amphibian eggs and larvae. These newts secrete a toxic substance from their skin to protect themselves from predators. If handling in the field be sure to wash your hands thoroughly as soon as possible.