North Carolina wildlife
Red eft (eastern newt)
Notophthalmus viridescens
Juvenile terrestrial stage of eastern newt, bright orange-red coloration
See the Red eft (eastern newt) up close
Best months
Jun · Jul · Aug
Best seen in summer after a rain; check recent weather reports for optimal conditions.
Where to look
Appalachian forest floor (NC/TN border)Great Smoky Mountains National Park (NC side)Pisgah National Forest
Conservation status
common and widespread across eastern US
Good to know
Are red efts dangerous to touch?
Their bright color warns predators; they produce a mild toxin but it's harmless if you wash hands after handling.
Do red efts stay on land their whole life?
No, after 2-3 years they transform into aquatic adults and return to ponds or slow-moving streams.
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