Beware the Newt

 
From the Words of  Wikipedia- Characteristics of the Newt

Many newts produce toxins in their skin secretions as a defense mechanism against predators...newts of ... North America are particularly toxic... The Rough -skinned Newt...produces more than enough tetrodotoxin to kill an adult human  and some Native Americans...used the toxin to poison their enemies... However, the toxins are only dangerous if ingested... and the newts can be safely kept as pets... Most newts can be safely handled , provided that the toxins they produce are not ingested or allowed to come in contact with mucous membranes.. After handling, proper hand-washing techniques should be followed... It is illegal however to handle or disturb Great Crested Newts...

Newts are also very good environmental indicators because of their thin sensitive skin

The main breeding season for newts is between the months of June and July (after courtships of varying complexity) 

Editor's note- The Republican National convention is being held August 27 to August 30 in Tampa, Florida-  after the breeding season has typically ended.

Editor's note- as reported in Medscape Reference, the mortality rate from tetrodotoxin poisoning is approximately 50%... the patients who live through the acute intoxication usually recover without residual deficit