Eastern Newt (Notophthalmus viridescens) eft, or juvenile. The Eastern Newt dwells in wet forests with small lakes or ponds. They may coexist in an aquatic environment with fish, because their skin secretes a poisonous substance when the newt is threatened or injured. They have a lifespan of 12 to 15 years in the wild, and may grow to 5 inches in length. Eastern newts are at home in both coniferous and deciduous forests. They need a moist environment with either a temporary or permanent body of water, and thrive best in a muddy environment. Red efts may often be seen in a forest after a rainstorm. They eat a variety of foods such as insects, small mollusks and crustaceans, young amphibians and frogs eggs. Ludlow, MA. USA. Summer. Wild.