Red Spotted Newt (eft)

RED-SPOTTED NEWT
Notophtalmus viridescens viridescens

Newts are pretty interesting. They start off as an aquatic juvenile and then phase into their land phase which are called efts. During this time their skin is toxic and can even be harmful to humans if ingested or if they come into contact with open cuts. Then, they phase back to the water, but dont develop gills. They do change color again, to more of a green or grey with a yellow body. They mate in the water and eventually die.

They are pretty darn cute throughout most of their lifecycles. One strong memory I have of these is sitting next to a small vernal pool on my honeymoon with my wife watching the newts slowly bob to the surface.

Common Garter Snake

COMMON GARTER SNAKE
Thamnophis sirtalis:18-51"

The Garter Snake is the most common snake in the United States. These generally feed on frogs, toads, mice, earthworms, and even small fish. They present many different variations of color but generally have strong back and side stripes.

This guy was a bout 15 inches long and posed nicely for this picture. It was hunting by a river. (check out his eye!)