Newt ID please

[black]

We found this tiny newt, hiding underneath a discarded margarine tub on the side of the path at Wigan Flashes NR, Gtr Manchester at the weekend. I have no knowledge of Newts whatsoever so would be grateful if anyone could provide an ID. Had nice orange underbelly as can be seen in the last photo. Thanks

[stanleydog]

A smooth or common newt (Lissotriton vulgaris) I'd say.
Jason.

[black]

Thanks Jason

[Gill Catton]

Originally Posted by black

Thanks Jason

the lack of spots on the throat of this animal suggests Palmate newt Trituruus helveticus to me, female probably

[yellowhammer]

A female of that size can't really be ID'd from a photo. Gill's right, it does look like a Palmate but Smooth newts can show an unmarked underside & throat.

To be sure it was Palmate I'd like to see a pale mark at the base of the hind leg (although this is by no means diagnostic; some have it, some don't) and/or 2 light spots under the hind foot.

The noticable hollow between the nostril and eye is very indicative of Smooth newt - Palmate just doesn't have it. Having said that, it's not very pronounced.

So, I'm leaning toward Smooth but I really don't think we can ID it from here. Just call her 'Newt', wait for the spring and look for a male, they're easy!

[black]

Thanks for the ID tips, shame she couldn't be ID'd though. I'll just have to go pond dipping in the Spring.

[Dogghound]

Looking at the underside of the newt it is quite clearly a female Smooth newt. The orange stripe down the back is also a common feature of smooth newts. palmate tend to be slightly different although individuals do differ female palmate are usually alot more yellow on the underside and have a different shaped back. Also when out of water smooth newts often get an almost velvety skin that can be seen on this photo.