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Deep Dive: Snakes vs. Newts

  • Sonoma State University 1801 E Cotati Ave Rohnert Park, CA, 94928 United States (map)

Ever stumble upon a newt ambling slowly across your path in the woods, and wondered why the little critter didn’t seem concerned by a world full of threatening animals? That's because newts are defended by one of the most dangerous poisons ever discovered—tetrodotoxin—and almost no predators can eat them: almost no predators. Some garter snakes in parts of California and Oregon have overcome this imposing defense, but dining on newts may come at a price. Learn about this evolutionary drama unfolding between predators and prey right here in Northern California. Join us to explore local garter snakes, newts and the poison that binds them in an evolutionary arms race.