Photo of the Week: Defensive Gymnastics of the Rough-Skinned Newt

A rough-skinned newt is shown in a defensive posture at the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) ponds, Corvallis, OR. Amphibians are key indicators of ecosystem health and drinking water conditions. They are an important part of ecosystems that support life on Earth. The plight of amphibians, one of the most threatened taxonomic groups in the world, has become symbolic of biodiversity loss. U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) works with organizations such as Partners in Amphibian and Reptile Conservation (PARC) to collaborate in annual activities including the very popular Amphibian Week creating greater awareness of the critical role amphibians play in our ecosystem.

Photo Credit: Brome Mccreary, Wildlife Biologist