Red Eft or Red Spotted Newt

This very interesting critter was photographed, underwater, by Kathy Bozony at what is believed to be Upper Reservoir near Corinth, New York. A sub-species of the Eastern Newt, it is about 2 1/2 inches long and forages in shallow water. They prey voraciously on worms, insects, small crustaceons and larvae. They secrete toxic substances, and are therefore left alone by fish while in the water feeding. Double click on the pic to get a great view of this elusive critter.