Smooth newt

Smooth newt facts

Scientific name: Lissotriton vulgaris

Family: Salamandridae

Diet: Mainly invertebrates

Predators: Birds, fish, mammals and larger amphibians

Size: 8-10 cm

Lifespan: Six years

About smooth newts

These newts are so-called for their smooth skin, which is usually brown or olive. Males become particularly striking during the breeding season when they develop a wavy crest.

As both predators and prey, they help maintain balance in the ecosystem by controlling insect populations and serving as food to larger animals. Smooth newts are often used as indicators of environmental health, as they’re sensitive to pollution and habitat loss.

Lifecycle of a smooth newt

The lifecycle of a smooth newt is fascinating and involves several stages:

1. Smooth newts migrate to bodies of water to breed. Males develop their distinctive breeding colours and crests.
2. Females lay up to 400 eggs, attaching each individually to underwater plants. The eggs hatch within a few weeks.
3. The larvae are fully aquatic and resemble tadpoles. They breathe through external gills.
4. During metamorphosis, the larvae lose their gills and develop lungs, transitioning to juvenile newts suited to a more terrestrial lifestyle.
5. After metamorphosis, the young newts leave the water and spend most of their time on land, returning only for breeding. Adults grow and reach sexual maturity within a few years.

What do smooth newts look like?

Smooth newts are small, around 8-10cm, with streamlined bodies for swimming. Males are generally olive green or brown with dark spots, while females are typically paler. Both sexes have an orange belly with black spots. The tail is flat and paddle-shaped.

During the breeding season, males develop a wavy crest that runs from their head to the tip of their tail, and their colours become more vivid.

Differences between male and female smooth newts

Males and females can be distinguished by their size and colour. Males are generally slimmer, with brighter colours and more pronounced markings during the breeding season. Females are rounder and are often more muted.

What do smooth newt larvae look like?

Larvae are around 6.5-7mm, with slender bodies and a long, pointed tail. They’re yellow-brown with two stripes along their body. As they grow, they develop their forelegs first, then their hindlegs. They become darker and reach about 3-4.5cm before metamorphosing into eft – terrestrial juveniles.

What do smooth newts eat?

Smooth newts are carnivores. As adults, they mostly eat small insects. However, their diet changes depending on their age and habitat. Larvae primarily feed on microscopic plankton and small aquatic invertebrates.

Newts have an excellent sense of smell, which they use to hunt prey and navigate.

Where do smooth newts live?

Smooth newts are highly adaptable and can live in a range of habitats as long as there is access to both land and water. They’re common and widespread along our canal network and reservoirs. They prefer still, shallow bodies of water.

Outside of the breeding season, smooth newts are largely terrestrial creatures. You might find them in woodlands, grasslands, or parks and gardens.

During winter, smooth newts hibernate in sheltered locations, like under logs, rocks or compost heaps.