268 Dead; no live ones seen; Total death toll: 2,040

January 19, 2019 (Saturday)
I found 268 fresh newt carcasses (i.e., belly was bright orange or yellow and/or there was bright red blood).
See: https://www.inaturalist.org/calendar/truthseqr/2019/1/19

I also found 140 partially decomposed carcasses. I'll have to compare these with previous observations to make sure no duplicates are added to the project. This might take several days or weeks. Just be aware that the count could jump up to 408 for this date, if all the decomposed ones are added to the project in the coming weeks.

Other Roadkill: I also saw a broad-footed mole dead on the road (DOR).

Coverage: @merav joined me for the roadkill count between Limekiln and Priest Rock Trailheads. I also surveyed St. Joseph's Hill OSP to Aldercroft Heights Rd. (6.6 miles total). 100% coverage today.

Rainfall: 1.18" since I last did a roadkill count. Total rainfall for Jan: 4.34"

Traffic: There was a steady flow of traffic to and from the Los Gatos Rowing Club (not a safe time to be taking roadkill pictures). Traffic was not so bad once I got past the rowing club entrance. Lots of bikes and joggers on the road today as well.

Question: what does a newt look like after it's been run over by 100 vehicles?

Posted on January 20, 2019 10:51 AM by truthseqr