Animal of the Day
Thursday, August 13, 2026
Amphibian Least Concern
Smooth Newt
Lissotriton vulgaris
The smooth newt (Lissotriton vulgaris) is Europe's most widespread newt, breeding in ponds and ditches from the UK across the continent into western Asia. Adults are carnivorous on invertebrates, return to water each spring, and are listed Least Concern — still common in many UK gardens.
- Scientific name
- Lissotriton vulgaris
- Diet
- Carnivore (invertebrates)
- Habitat
- Ponds, ditches, and damp meadows
- Lifespan
- Around 6 years in the wild (varies by population and captivity).
- Weight
- About 0.003 kg typical adult mass (sex and region vary).