Smooth newts (Lissotriton vulgaris) are the most common newt species in Buckinghamshire and are frequently encountered in gardens.

Identification
Smooth newts reach approximately 10cm and are brown/grey in colour. They are very similar to palmate newts, and females of both species are very hard to tell apart.

Male smooth newts lack the webbed rear feet and tail filament of the palmate newt. They also have a larger crest. Palmate newts frequently have a pinkish throat which rarely has spots (unlike in the smooth newt). Palmate newts are usually more square in cross-section than the smooth newt, which is more rounded.

Male smooth newts differ from females by having distinct dark spots on the flanks and belly.

The eggs are grey in colour and are smaller than that of a great crested newt. It is not possible to differentiate between smooth newt and palmate newt eggs.

Ecology
Smooth newts are found in variety of habitats such as rough grassland, parks, gardens, woodland and farmland. This species breeds in a variety of aquatic habitats and is less discerning than the great crested newt over its preferred breeding site. Large lakes as well as small ditches are used.

The tiny juveniles leave the pond in late summer and return to breed approximately three years later when mature.

Smooth Newts in Buckinghamshire
Smooth newts are found throughout Buckinghamshire, especially so in the lowland clay valleys across much of the county. They are common in garden ponds and and can be seen gulping mouthfuls of air from the surface during the day.

Protection
Smooth newts are protected from being traded activities under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981.