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Photo: Barry Kemp
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UK
Safari Tip:
Need help identifying amphibians and reptiles? Try this superbly
illustrated fold out ID chart - click
here
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Latin name: Triturus cristatus
Size: can grow up to 17cm in length.
Distribution: Found in low numbers in most parts of England, Wales and southern Scotland. Absent from Northern Ireland.
Months seen: February to October.
Life Span: Usually 6 years, but there are records of some living for 15
years or more.
Habitat: During spring and summer they can be found in, or near, ponds and streams. In early October they come out of the water to hibernate on dry land.
Special features: The great crested newt is a protected species. It is illegal to
catch or handle great crested newts unless they are in immediate danger.
 During springtime, the male has a large crest running along its back (hence the name) and a bright orange belly. They are sometimes called the 'warty newt' as their skin is very bumpy.
Special glands in the skin release a foul-tasting and irritating substance which
stops predators from eating them.
Amphibian ID Charts and Books in the Nature Shop
What's an Amphibian?
Close up of a Great Crested Newt
UK Safari Amphibian Section
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