Happy newt year
January was a wet month in the Bay Area, and whenever we’re lucky enough to get rain, my mind wanders to newts! Four species of newt call California home, but the two I’ve had regular success finding near me are California newts (Taricha torosa) and rough-skinned newts (Taricha granulosa). I’m working on a little video project about them right now, but I thought I’d share some more information here first.
First up, California Newts, also known as orange-bellied newts. These guys are one of the largest species of newts, growing up to 8 inches (20 cm) in length. Their smooth and shiny skin is a standout feature with its distinctive orange belly and dark brown or black back. These newts can be found in various habitats, such as forests, meadows, and wetlands, but are most commonly associated with streams, ponds, and lakes. These nocturnal creatures feed on insects, worms, snails, and other small invertebrates and have a complex life cycle involving aquatic and terrestrial stages. The larvae of California Newts develop in water and mature into terrestrial adults through metamorphosis.
Regarding courtship behavior, California Newts have got it down to a science. The male newt will approach the female and wave his tail back and forth, making for a truly unique sight. And, not to mention, they have a gland located behind their eye that produces a toxic secretion to deter predators. These slow-moving creatures spend most of their day hiding under rocks or logs, but they are an essential part of the ecosystem and serve as a food source for many predators, including birds, snakes, and mammals. The species also has a special cultural significance for Native American tribes in California, who view them as important symbols of renewal and rebirth.
Next up, the Rough-skinned Newts. These guys are native to the western coast of North America, from Alaska to California, and are one of the most poisonous species of newts, with a potent toxin in their skin that is highly toxic to predators. Their rough skin, as the name suggests, is a standout feature, and they grow up to 6 inches (15 cm) in length. The color of Rough-skinned Newts can vary, but they are generally brown or olive-green on the back and yellowish-orange on the belly.
Like California Newts, Rough-skinned Newts also have a complex life cycle involving aquatic and terrestrial stages, with larvae developing in water and maturing into terrestrial adults through metamorphosis. These nocturnal creatures spend most of their day hiding under rocks or logs but are most active during the breeding season, which occurs in the spring. Their distinctive courtship behavior, where the male approaches the female and waves his tail back and forth, is a sight to see.
Not only are Rough-skinned Newts essential members of their ecosystem, serving as a food source for many predators, but the toxin in their skin also makes them unpalatable to most predators. However, some animals, such as garter snakes, have developed resistance to the poison. These newts have a slow metabolism and can live up to 15 years in the wild.
Unfortunately, they are considered a species of special concern in some states due to habitat loss and degradation. Still, conservation efforts are underway to protect Rough-skinned Newts and their habitats.
California Newts and Rough-skinned Newts are fascinating creatures that play an important role in their ecosystems. They’re also incredibly similar in experience, so the next time you’re hiking or exploring a local park, try to find some and see if you can tell them apart. I’ll give you a clue to one difference … keep an eye out for their eyes!
