Nature Photographers Ltd

Palmate Newt Triturus helveticus Length 8-9cm A small newt. Adult has yellowish belly and pinkish, unspotted throat at all times. Note hint of pale vertical stripe above hind legs. Breeding male develops diagnostic palmations between toes on hind feet and thin filament projecting from tip of blunt tail. Body is olive-brown with dark marbling; orange-buff band extends along flanks and side of tail. Colours are duller at other times but retains dark eye stripe. Female is yellowish brown. Unspotted throat allows separation from female Smooth Newt (throat is spotted). Juvenile resembles an adult female. Locally common in neutral to acid ponds in breeding season, often on heaths and moors. Found in grassy habitats at other times.