Taricha granulosa

Rough-Skinned Newt

Identification/Variations: The most commonly encountered salamander in the Northwest. Newts are our one diurnal species. The reason is due to their poisonous skin makes then inedible to all but the Common Garter Snake. They are easily identified by moving quite slowly over land and having a yellow/orange underside.

Range/Habitat: This salamander is found in a variety of habitats. They like still ponds and sloughs so they mave lay their eggs. They can also be found away from water at given times of the year slowly plodding along the forest floor. They are found in western Oregon and Washington and range well into coastal British Columbia.

Notes: A common victim of automobiles, this salamander is often a favorite of young children as it is easy to find. However, while this animal may be handled safely, it should never be licked, eaten, etc. Washing hands after handling is always a good idea.