Smooth newt
Lissotriton vulgaris
Conservation status: Endangered – Protected in the UK under the Wildlife and Countryside Act, 1981
When to see: March to October
About
The smooth newt is a small amphibian with dark olive-green or brownish-grey skin with a light underside which can be yellow, orange or red. They also have a distinct black spots and stripes at the sides. Smooth newts are relatively slender with a rounded snout, webbed feet and long toes which help them swim effectively. Despite their name, they have rough skin on their back and tail making them less “smooth” than their name suggests! These tiny creatures are found throughout much of the UK where they inhabit marshes, ponds and shallow lakes. During breeding season, males develop a smooth crest running the full length of their body and tail, while females lay up to 300 eggs in water plants over several days before returning to land.
| See also different: | Garden amphibians |
