Himalayan Newt
Jun 6th, 2008 by Karthik
Newts and salamanders are largely inhabitants of the temperate regions with a few exceptions. There are about 350 species of newts and salamanders in the world. At first sight newts and salamanders (tailed amphibian) can be mistaken for a lizard (a reptile).
The Himalayan Newt Tylototriton verrucosus is a very special creature since it is the only tailed amphibian that is known from India. Within India it is known to occur in the eastern Himalaya. It has been recorded from Darjeeling, Sikkim, Meghalaya, Manipur and Arunachal Pradesh.
They frequent pools, ponds, and paddy fields. The sideways movement of their flat tail propels them forward and helps them swim well. Insects and other aquatic organisms are their main food. Being nocturnal and secretive not much is known about these creatures. During the winter months they are known to hide in burrows and other suitable places. They emerge from their hiding places during the monsoon months to breed and are most active during this time.
Habitat destruction is a threat to this uncommon species. Climate change could also threaten this species.
Concise and informative. Excellent as always doc..
Information essence is quite informative
Sirjee,
Another gem from your treasure trove… Keep them coming and informing us about the rare and amazing wildlife that you have managed to capture with your lens.
Thanks and keep going… A lil faster… Cheers
Very informative…didn’t know we had newts here. Amazing, they look rather like foetuses, don’t they?
Valuable information about Himalayan newts. Hope some conservation efforts will be taken up soon to protect them before we say bye bye to them …
Keep up the good work Karthi…BTW where was this pic taken?
Wonderful post, Karthik! Where did you click this pic? Thanks for the great info. It is truly a pleasure to read your posts.
Wow looks like a rubbery toy lizard which I used to play with to scare people
Informative and interesting. Thank you.
I hope you visit Margaret’s Hope Tea Garden , near Kurseong.
You can see the great site for these lovely amphibians at the Margaret’s Hope Lake. at this time of the year you can see them by the dozens !!!