The great crested newt (Triturus cristatus) is a large
amphibian that measures up to 16 centimetres long (females are larger than
males). It is found near pools and ponds but is able to travel short distances
from water.
The upper body is brown, black or grey but the underside is
bright yellow or orange with black marks. The body is covered in warty bumps.
Male great crested newts have a long crest on the back and
their tails grow larger during the breeding season.
Great crested newts hibernate from October to March when
they emerge to breed. Eggs are laid in water, the tadpoles staying there for
four months until they are able to breathe air.
The tadpoles, when their legs have formed, look very similar
to adults, only smaller.
Great crested newts feed on worms, insects, larvae, and the
young of frogs and other newt species.
Although they are widespread in Europe and lowland Britain,
numbers have declined in recent years due to habitat loss. In the United
Kingdom they are a protected species, and the discovery of a breeding or
hibernating colony of great crested newts can lead to difficulties for building
or road projects.
© John Welford
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