Red Eft (Eastern Newt in juvenile terrestrial stage)

Natural Habitat

Found in moist deciduous and coniferous forests of Eastern North America, usually under leaf litter, logs, or near vernal pools and ponds.

Diet & Feeding

Carnivorous; they eat a variety of small invertebrates including snails, springtails, spiders, beetles, and small insects.

Behavior Patterns

This is a non-insect amphibian. The red eft is the juvenile land-dwelling stage of the Eastern Newt, which can last 2 to 7 years before the animal returns to water to become a green-colored aquatic adult. They are most active after rainfall.

Risks & Benefits

Benefits the ecosystem by controlling insect populations. Risks: They secrete tetrodotoxin, a potent neurotoxin, through their skin as a defense mechanism. They are toxic if ingested and can cause skin irritation if handled; hand washing is essential after contact.

Identified on: 4/29/2026