Published October 2, 2025
With the ground still wet from this year’s first rainfall, the annual breeding migration for our local California Newts and Rough-skinned Newts will soon begin. This journey is especially perilous for the newts traveling from their upland habitats in our Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve across Alma Bridge Road to Lexington Reservoir.
These charismatic crawlers are known for their vibrant, warning-colored undersides and their incredible ability to regenerate not just tails, but lost limbs, organs and even parts of their brain!
Unfortunately, their migration is often fatal. After community scientists alerted Midpen of the issue, we and our partners at POST funded a study estimating nearly 40% of adult newts attempting the crossing are killed by vehicles. This severe road barrier threatens the entire local newt population.
That's why Midpen is actively partnering with Santa Clara County and dedicated community scientists on a long-term solution. This project is a rare, proactive effort to protect a common local species. We are currently advancing the design robust solutions: elevated roadway sections and dedicated wildlife underpasses along the nearly 4 mile section of roadway.
While this essential work progresses, we urge all drivers to act with caution as the rain continues. Please drive slowly on Alma Bridge Road, and consider limiting non-essential trips following rain events when the newts are most active.