Great Crested Newt
Triturus cristatus
Adult great crested newts breed in fish-free ponds with abundant aquatic plants, then often spend the rest of the year in damp terrestrial refuges nearby. They feed on aquatic insects, worms, tadpoles, small crustaceans, and other soft-bodied prey, striking with a quick lunge and bite. During the breeding season males develop a tall jagged crest and perform underwater courtship displays to fan scent toward females. Their warty skin and toxic secretions make them unpalatable to many predators.
- Type
- Water / Venom
- Conservation status
- LC
Growth chain
- Great Crested Newt Larva
- ?
- Great Crested Newt