Natural History: Central Newt

Central Newts, both male and female, along with a tadpole

Notophthalmus viridescens, commonly referred to as the central newt, is a common inhabitant in the swamplands and woodland ponds of the South. As we explored the area next to the Francis Marion National Park, we searched through the swampy waters and were rewarded with these great creatures. 

Female Central Newt

This gorgeous beauty is a voluptuous adult female. This is evident in her slender hind legs and her lack of a saddle seen on her belly. The central newt is distinguished by its olive green to olive brown dorsal color which is sharply cut off by its bright yellow venter (belly). Similar to the Red-spotted newt, but it is lacking in a very important characteristic: red spots on its slender body. It is probably the beginnings of the breeding season, she is very plump. Most likely this plumpness is from a large amount of eggs she is carrying in preparation for mating. The moist, warm habitat of the swamp is a great location for this female. The newts like to roam around on the leaf litter in the murky water. In this aquatic stage, the newts consume zooplankton, fish eggs, and even amphibian and anuran larvae.

Getting the chance to help survey this area and uncover what species call it home was immensely satisfy and exciting! The opportunity to clamber over fallen logs searching for reptiles and wading through the swampy waters dip netting for amphibians was amazing. Every semi-permanent pond was a wonderful mystery. Collecting each trap held an air of anticipation as they were lifted out of the water and searched for the tiny creatures we rarely get the chance to see.