California newt

These little amphibians live in the leaf litter,where it's fairly damp most of the year. They show up in ponds for mating season around now. Their eggs, which resemble marbles wrapped up in clear jello will appear attached to plants in a few weeks. These critters are also known for their orange/yellow stomachs... a warning to predators that they are very toxic!
This one is presently in a pond at the Sibley Volcanic Preserve in the Oakland hills. Lots of aquatic plants are reflected in the water's surface. I'll see if I can get any other good blips of these guys this season.