Taking the Plunge

Spotted while it was creeping down to a Hubbardston pond was this adult Red-spotted Newt. In preparation for aquatic life, the newt has acquired protective coloration and a more-flattened tail.

This is what those little red efts--terrestrial forms of Eastern, or Red-spotted , Newts--look like when they become adults after 2-3 years. They retain the red spots.

The newt sought an area of fast-flowing water for taking the plunge. The strong current helps it to disperse and find its way to a quiet pool where it will find a mate and breed.