CHARLESTON, W.Va. (WVDN) — The West Virginia Division of Natural Resources (WVDNR) today announced the start of a new citizen science project to track the distribution and abundance of eastern newts across the state.
The eastern newt, also known as the red-spotted newt, is a small salamander commonly found in West Virginia’s forests, fields and wetlands. It is unique among salamanders because it has three distinct life stages: an aquatic larval stage with external gills, a terrestrial red eft stage that can last several years and an aquatic adult stage. Members of the public are encouraged to report eastern newt sightings in any life stage.
“Citizen science plays a critical role in conservation and this survey gives West Virginians an opportunity to directly contribute to protecting one of our most recognizable native amphibians,” said WVDNR Director Brett McMillion.
Data collected through the survey will help WVDNR biologists better understand eastern newt populations and prepare for the potential arrival of a newly described chytrid fungus that is deadly for eastern newts. While the fungus has not yet been documented in North America, biologists expect it to arrive in the future.
“Disease is one of the leading threats to amphibian populations globally,” said Kevin Oxenrider, the WVDNR’s amphibian and reptile program leader. “That’s why it’s so important to understand where eastern newts are now and how common they are across West Virginia. Every observation helps us build a clearer picture of their status before this disease arrives.”
Outdoor enthusiasts can help prevent the spread of amphibian diseases by washing boots, boats and gear between visits to different outdoor locations, especially aquatic habitats and allowing gear to fully dry for at least 48 hours before reuse.
The survey will take two years to complete. Members of the public who see the iconic salamander are encouraged to report their sightings to the WVDNR through the Survey123 app or online at WVdnr.gov/eastern-newt-survey.
