Sierra newt
A species of Pacific newts Scientific name : Taricha sierrae Genus : Pacific newts
Sierra newt, A species of Pacific newts
Scientific name: Taricha sierrae
Genus: Pacific newts
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Description People often ask General Info
Description
The Sierra newt, with scientific name Taricha sierrae, is a newt found west of the Sierra Nevada, from Shasta county to Tulare County, in California, Western North America.
People often ask
General Info
Lifespan
15-20 years
Diet
Sierra newt's dietary habits are predominantly carnivorous, feeding primarily on aquatic invertebrates. Their diet includes a significant portion of tadpoles, larvae of various insects, small crustaceans, and occasionally small fish, reflecting their adaptability.
Appearance
Sierra newt is a medium-sized amphibian with a slim, elongated body and rough, granular skin. It prominently features a bright or dark orange color on its ventral side contrasted by brown or olive dorsal coloring. It has no distinctive markings, but its eyes are unusually large. Gender and age do not significantly alter its appearance.
Behavior
Sierra newt is largely nocturnal, exhibiting distinctive defense mechanisms such as posture display and the secretion of a lethal toxin through skin glands when threatened. It breeds in cold, clear mountain waters during spring, exhibiting complex mating behaviors that involve lengthy courtship displays. Sierra newt is generally solitary outside the reproductive period.
Population
Stable
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Amphibians Order
Salamanders Family
True salamanders Genus
Pacific newts Species
Sierra newt