SMOOTH NEWT

The Latin name for the Smooth Newt is Triturus vulgaris.

This is also known as the Common newt. It is a medium-sized amphibian with a body length of 6 to 9cm, occasionally more. For most of the year the male and female have smooth, velvety skin. During the breeding season in spring, the male becomes crested and more strongly marked with black blotches and a yellow belly. The female is duller, and does not become crested.

Eggs are laid singly on aquatic plants, which eventually hatch into tadpoles.

The Smooth newt often appears in garden ponds, being most visible in the breeding season, especially at night.