Red Eft (Juvenile Eastern Newt)

Natural Habitat

Deciduous and coniferous forests with nearby permanent or semi-permanent water sources and ample leaf litter.

Diet & Feeding

Carnivorous; feeds on small invertebrates such as insects, snails, spiders, and worms found in leaf litter.

Behavior Patterns

The 'red eft' is a terrestrial juvenile stage that can last 2 to 7 years. They are often diurnal (active during the day) after rainfall. They eventually return to water to transform into aquatic adults.

Risks & Benefits

Benefits the ecosystem by controlling insect populations. They possess tetrodotoxin in their skin which is toxic if ingested by predators (or humans), and can cause skin irritation; handling is not recommended.

Identified on: 4/28/2026