Bright Red Ensatina Salamanders 29 December 2006 |
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| Found these bright red Yellow-Eyed Ensatina Salamanders, a Monterey sub-species, while birding along a quiet country road. |
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| In wet weather lung-less ensatina salamanders emerge from their burrows deep underground to absorb moisture through their skin. |
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| Suddenly exposed to light and fresh air, the three shown here remained motionless allowing me to take several photos. |
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| Lung-less and very fragile, ensatinas breathe entirely through their skin. Avoid handling as residue on your hands may be toxic to them. |
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| This tiny ensatina measured less than 2-inches. | ||
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| Skin so translucent, you can almost see through it. | ||
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| Note the size of this tiny creature in relationship to the oak leaf and dirt clods. | ||
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| Less than the length of my little finger, yet this brave little ensatina arched its back defensively in an attempt to frighten me away. |
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| After spending a few minutes annoying them taking pictures, I carefully nudged them into the entrance of their burrow. They instantly crawled out of sight. |
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| Return to Top. | More on the Ensatina | See Arboreal Salamander |