Newtpalooza!

Rough-skinned newt. Photo by Jasper.

We went for a ramble on a clear winter day with friends at Tualatin Hills Nature Park.  You might think that cold-blooded amphibians would be hiding away for the winter, but you'd be wrong!  The rough skinned newts that famously inhabit the park were strutting their stuff in full force.  So much so that it was imperative to watch your step!  

Witch's butter.

We saw these tracks from a boardwalk, and couldn't get close.  They show definite webbing of the hind feet but no obvious heel pad, so I'm guessing they are nutria as opposed to muskrat or beaver.  

Photo by Jasper.

Photo by Jasper.

Photo by Jasper.

What a cutie! Photo by Jasper. 

Photo by Jasper's friend Della.

Photo by Jasper.