Species Reptiles & AmphibiansRed-bellied Newt

Red-bellied Newt

Taricha rivularis

UncommonReptile & Amphibian
Illustration of Red-bellied Newt (Taricha rivularis)
Safety note: Toxic — wash hands after contact

The Red-bellied Newt has a vivid tomato-red belly and very dark, nearly black back. It breeds in fast-moving streams in the coastal ranges of northern California. Its dark eyes distinguish it from other Taricha newts.

Habitat
Fast-moving streams in coastal forests of northern California
Diet
Earthworms, slugs, and invertebrates
How common
Uncommon

Best time to see a Red-bellied Newt

The best time to see a Red-bellied Newt is January–April, when about 63% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 1,794 research-grade iNaturalist observations.

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Recent Red-bellied Newt sightings near you

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