A hike after rain in a forest.
Wondering what pond is the nearest.
For on the trail is a bright orange eft
So happy this juvenile is left
Once a larva tadpole in a pond
Now a land dweller, come from beyond.
Terrestrial juvenile stage
aquatic adult is the next page
in the life of this red spotted newt
Unpalatable, of bad repute
Very unprofitable for prey.
An adaptation, this is the way
Once again this creature will transform
metamorphosis is the norm.
Back to aquatic as an adult
Olive green on top is the result
With a yellow belly underneath
Stewardship is my wish to bequeath
If we want these small creatures to thrive
Leave them a lone so they can survive