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Emperor Newt
Regenstein Small Mammal-Reptile House
Did You Know?
- Emperor newts are found only along a few rivers in the mountains of western China. They live in mountain forests up to 8,200 feet in elevation.
- Males and females do a courtship dance that involves possible mates turning in circles underwater while their snouts are touching.
- The orange warts on their back hide many venom glands. They produce a strong toxin that protects them from larger predators.
Don’t See the Animals?
Why aren’t animals visible at all times? To promote positive animal welfare, we provide animals with choices. They can choose to spend time in areas that are out of public view.
Take an Animal Home with You
Overview
Scientific Name: Tylototrition shanjing
Class: Amphibians
Diet: Earthworms, centipedes, snails, and other small invertebrates
Range: Yunnan, China
Endangered Status: Vulnerable
More Information
These rough-skinned amphibians are generally dark brownish-black with orange or yellow on the head. They have bony ridges on the back and head and a row of warts running down their sides. They are 4.5–6 inches long, with females being larger.
They live on land but will seek out wetlands and water fields during the breeding season, which takes place May through August during monsoon season. Males and females do a courtship dance, and females deposit eggs on rocks and plants in water. The eggs are incubated for up to 23 days.
