California newt [TARICHA TOROSA]

The cold, late fall rains that drive many species into winter shelters also call forth sleepy California newts. Along the western side of the Sierra Nevada and the length of the coast, these gentle creatures appear overnight from their underground hiding places to migrate toward breeding ponds and streams. Beginning in December, large numbers of males congregate at favored sites to await the arrival of females. Courtship involves a male clasping the female with his arms and softly rubbing his chin on her nose for an hour. He then moves to one side and deposits a gelatinous sperm packet on the mud that she picks up in her cloaca in preparation for laying eggs. Because she mates only every other year, a female may find herself surrounded by frenzied clusters of males.

NATURAL HISTORY

The homing instincts of newts are legendary. Individuals transplanted several miles away invariably return home even if it takes several years to cover the distance. When new roads disrupt their migration routes, countless newts become road kill each winter unless protection measures ensure their survival.

KEY CHARACTERISTICS

Warty most of the year but smooth-skinned while breeding, newts usually are chocolate brown on top and burnt orange underneath.