Triturus helveticus - Palmate Newt

This is the smallest of the three newt species found in Britain. It is most common on heath and moorland, where it breeds in small waterholes in the spring.

Palmate newts are reasonably common in many parts of Wales, although not as plentiful as the common newt (Triturus vulgata). Note the skin between the toes of the palmate newt - the feet are rather like palms of the hand, from which it gets its name.

The great crested newt (Triturus cristatus) is now quite rare in many parts of the British Isles and is strictly protected by law.

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