Black-spotted Newt (Notophthalmus meridionalis)

The first step to protecting Endangered and Threatened species is to learn how fascinating and essential they are.

My latest project to sample 6-8 colors from actual images of Texas Threatened Species and to create original art inspired by their limited palette has been a wonderful challenge.  

Meet Notophthalmus meridionalis, otherwise known as the black-spotted newt.

             

THIS Texas Parks and Wildlife Magazine article offered an eye-opening perspective on the 3-4" predator.

" 'Newts don’t know that they’re small,' my colleague informs us as we hike through South Texas’ Sabal Palm Sanctuary. 'They are serious predators — in their minds, they are lions!' "

The black-spotted newt, like many species, relies mostly on camouflage to protect itself.  Though, when push comes to shove- this threatened amphibian shows those bright orange colors that I sampled for this piece.

"The black-spotted newt can rear up to expose a bright orange underside, warning predators that it is toxic to eat."  

SHOP THIS DESIGN: HERE

5% of the profits from these products go to Threatened & Endangered Species.

THREATENED TEXAS SERIES: Each palette & threatened species is unique. I have sampled colors from images of actual Texas Threatened Species: Black-spotted Newt (Notophthalmus meridionalis) to create this original works.

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Sources: 

https://tpwmagazine.com/archive/2016/aug/scout5_wi...