The Rough-Skinned Newt is a member of the Salamander family. It is well known for its rough skin and orange belly. The Rough-Skinned Newts, like most salamanders, breathe through their skin and the thin membranes in their mouth and throat. They can be found both on land and in the water. They produce a toxin which is potent when ingested, but can be safely handled. The toxin is a defense mechanism to protect them from predators. In 1979, a 29 year old man from Oregon died after ingesting a Rough-Skinned Newt. They are common throughout the Tualatin River Watershed.
