When an eastern newt is in its juvenile phase, it turns a bright orangish red, puts on a nice spotted coat, and spends its time on land. As it grows into the newt it will eventually become, it moves to a more permanent water source in the form of a river, pond or lake. It’s when it’s in this red phase that it is commonly called a red eft. Nikon D300 with Nikkor 70-200mm lens (at 120mm) ISO 800, f/5.6 at 1/20th of a second.
It’s surprising that they aren’t more camouflaged as a juvenile—the bright colors would seem to make them more vulnerable to predators. But I do like the fashion statement!
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Color is so vibrant red on green leaves interesting species
Aunt Sue
Righteous newt! Terrific bokeh in this image, Sean.
It’s surprising that they aren’t more camouflaged as a juvenile—the bright colors would seem to make them more vulnerable to predators. But I do like the fashion statement!