Palmate Newt
Triturus helvetica
Length 9cm

Outside breeding season, can be confused with smooth newt, and then best distinguished by unspotted throat. Breeding male has webbed hind feet and deep, coloured tail ending in thread-like filament; belly yellowish. Female similar to female smooth newt. Widespread in mainland Great Britain. Found in lakes, ponds and canals; often occurs in fairly acid pools on upland moors or near to coast. Spends much of year in water but hibernates on land between November and March, usually under logs or stones. Feeds on invertebrates but also frog tadpoles.