Newt Reptiles for sale in Askam-in-Furness, Westmorland and Furness

Newts are semi-aquatic salamanders belonging to the family Salamandridae, found naturally across North America, Europe, and Asia. The UK is home to three native species: the Smooth Newt (Lissotriton vulgaris), the Palmate Newt (Lissotriton helveticus), and the larger, rarer Great Crested Newt (Triturus cristatus), which is a protected species and cannot be legally kept without a licence. For the pet trade, species such as the Eastern Fire-Bellied Newt and various Cynops and Tylototriton species are commonly available, providing interesting and rewarding alternatives to native species.

Newts alternate between aquatic and terrestrial habitats depending on the season, and captive setups should reflect this by providing both a deep water section for swimming and a land area with moist moss, bark, or substrate for resting. They are typically kept at cool to room temperature — most species prefer 16 to 22°C — and benefit from a gentle water filtration system to maintain clean conditions. Newts feed on live or frozen invertebrates such as bloodworm, daphnia, brine shrimp, and small earthworms. They are fascinating to observe but should be handled minimally, as their permeable skin makes them sensitive to chemicals, salts, and residues from human hands. With correct housing and care, many newt species live for ten to twenty years in captivity.