California Newt

Taricha torosa

Safety note: Toxic — wash hands after contact

The California Newt is a rough-skinned newt with an orange-yellow belly that it displays as a warning when threatened. Its skin produces tetrodotoxin, a potent neurotoxin 10,000 times more toxic than cyanide.

Habitat

Streams, ponds, and adjacent forests in California

Diet

Earthworms, slugs, insects, and other small invertebrates

How common

Common

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