Eastern Newt

Notophthalmus viridescens

Classification

  • Reptiles and Amphibians

Conservation Status

  • The Eastern Newt can live for 15 years. 
  • This newt produces a foul-tasting toxin, making it an unattractive meal to predators. 
  • Bright orange juveniles are known as “red efts.” The coloration is a warning to predators, an example of aposematism. 
  • Eastern newts that are caught and released many miles from their homes, will immediately strike out in the direction of their homes. They are thought to navigate using the earth’s magnetic field.

About this site

The Cumberland River Basin project aims to promote the ecological and economical health of the Cumberland River Basin, an 18,000 square mile region that stretches across 70 Tennessee and Kentucky counties and home to more than 2 million people. 

Photography

A majority of the photography featured on this site was provided courtesy of Chuck Sutherland. For more information please visit Chuck’s website.

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The Cumberland River Compact works to enhance the health and enjoyment of the Cumberland River and its tributaries through education, restoration, and collaboration. Learn more by visiting cumberlandrivercompact.org.