Creature that can be "red-spotted"

NEWT

This small amphibian is often found near ponds and undergoes a striking transformation from aquatic larva to terrestrial adult.

This clue hints at a small amphibian often found in ponds or forests. The term "red-spotted" is a direct description—red-spotted newts are a well-known species with bright orange or red dots. The wordplay is straightforward here, using a common adjective to point to the specific type of newt. If you think of salamanders, you’re on the right track, since newts are a type of salamander.