The red eft is the juvenile stage of the eastern newt, a type of salamander found in North America. It is characterized by its bright red or orange skin, which serves as a warning to predators about its toxicity. Red efts typically inhabit moist forest environments and can be seen wandering on land after leaving the aquatic larval stage. As they mature, red efts transform into adult newts, which are usually green or brown and return to aquatic habitats. This transformation is part of their life cycle, which includes stages in both water and on land, showcasing their adaptability to different environments.