Submitted by Wolf Hollow

Have you seen any rough-skinned newts this fall?

These little brown amphibians with orange bellies are moving from the ponds and wetlands where they spent the summer, into the surrounding woodland where they’ll hide under rotten logs and leaves during the winter months. Sadly their route often takes them across roads where many are squished by cars. They are small and difficult to see, especially at night, but if you know the areas where they cross you can watch out for these little creatures and have a better chance of avoiding them. You can also gently scoop them up and move them off the road (Just wash your hands afterward).

If you see newts crossing roads in your area and would like to warn people to look out for them, you can request a digital copy of a newt crossing sign from Kwiaht, which you can then print out and put up. The sign meets county standards for temporary signs if put up only when newts are present in spring and fall.

In past years people have reported seeing newts crossing Shark Reef Road, Channel Road near the airport, Bakerview Road, Cape St. Mary Road and Oles Lane, Center Road south of the school and Aleck Bay Road near Chadwick Marsh.

Please drive carefully and look out for newts in these areas.

If you do see newts in these or any other areas in San Juan County, we would love to know so we have an idea where these little animals are living and especially where their movements take them across busy roads.

You can help by calling Wolf Hollow at 378-5000 or email wolfhollow@wolfhollowwildlife.org. Or contact Kwiaht at kwiaht@gmail.com.