Western
New York Herpetological Society
www.wnyherp.org
© 2001 –
2002 by Western New York Herpetological Society
This
document is for guidance only and should not be used as the sole source of
information. New information is being developed daily. It is recommended that a
concerted effort be made to maintain up-to-date knowledge of the animals of
interest.
Common
Name:
Rough Skinned Newt
Latin
name:
Taricha granulose
Commonly Called:
Oregon
Newt
Native
to:
Coastlines of northwest North America from southwest
Alaska to the San Francisco Bay area of California
Size:
4.5 – 7 inches in length
General
appearance:
This newt is a generally plain dark brown dorsally
with a bright yellow or orange ventrally and a thin orange crest which runs
along the lower tail. The skin is granulated inappearance except for some times
during the breeding series when the skin is smooth. This species is also
identifiable by its well-developed limbs and flattened head. This species also
secretes a toxin as a defense mechanism.
Housing
requirements:
Enclosure:
A 36-inch terrarium is usually adequate for up to
two pairs of newts, though a larger enclosure will be needed for breeding these
newts. The enclosure should be two-thirds land and one-third of four to six
inches of water. Branches for climbing and hiding places should be provided.
Temperature:
Because this species originates from a temperate
climate these newts can easily be maintained at temperatures of at least 60° F
(typically room temperature is adequate).
Heat/Light:
Ultra-violet light is not necessary with this
species and typically additional heat sources should not be needed. A 12-hour
photoperiod should be provided and can easily be achieved with the use of
standard fluorescent lamps and a timer.
Substrate:
Aquarium gravel covered with sphagnum moss for the
land portion of the enclosure. A synthetic foam can also be used as a substrate
since it holds humidity well.
Environment:
These newts come from highly humid hilly or mountainous
regions. Occasionally they can also be found in grassland areas.
Diet:
Several different foods can be fed to these newts.
Tubiflex worms, small earthworms, small fish, brine shrimp, beef heart, and
crickets can all be offered. Commercially available newt food or sinking fish
food pellets can also be fed.
Maintenance:
Some sort of filtration should be provided for the
water or daily partial water changes should be performed. The land portion
should be spot cleaned regularly. Thorough cleanings can be achieved by using a
5% bleach solution. It is very important to wash your hands thoroughly after
handling the newt or cleaning the cage and cage accessories because of the
toxic secretions of this newt.
Other
references or recommended reading:
Staniszewski,
Marc, 1995, Amphibians in Captivity, T.F.H. Publishing, Neptune City, NJ Flank,
Lenny, Oregon Newts Available On-Line:
http://users.rcn.com/spiff.interport//main/caretxt/oregonnewtcare.html
Indiviglio,
Frank, 1997, Newts and Salamanders, Barron’s Educational Series, Inc.,
Hauppauge, NY