What do you feed baby newts?

FrEdDy · #1 (**permalink**) 07-11-2008, 03:07 AM

I have recently got two gorgeus baby newts. The trouble is they don't seem to be eating anything i feed them. I have tried wingless fruitflies and afids. What should i feed them?
They are only about 1.5-3 cm long. very small!

Please, any help and i would be grateful!

Wild-Woman · #2 (**permalink**) 07-11-2008, 05:05 AM

If they are from the wild, I would suggest that they be allowed to return there to hibernate. They are usually in an area that is moist, sheltered with access to a pond ready for next early spring.
Welcome to WAB by the way!

FrEdDy · #3 (**permalink**) 07-11-2008, 05:12 AM

We bought them from a man who was unable to care for them anymore.
The were bred in captivity, and I havent been able to get a hold of him to ask what he fed them

What would you suggest to feed them.

Thanks! Just getting the hang of this website

Hedge Witch · #4 (**permalink**) 07-11-2008, 06:22 AM

We have a member called caladina who posts on such matters - I suggest you try a PM. All the best!

Wild-Woman · #5 (**permalink**) 07-11-2008, 06:22 AM

Think I'd contact someone who is an expert in the field of amphibians. Do you know the species? A Reptile and Amphibian group may be able to put you in touch with a decent expert.
Please don't think I'm being rude or condescending, but it's best to get some background knowledge about any reptiles and amphibians before you obtain them as it's not as easy as it looks. I'm sure you've done this chap a favour but now you need some good advice about their upkeep. Try googling for a local group and see if someone can advise you.
I am not an expert so would not attempt to suggest what to feed them.

Sorry not to be able to help more. Could you take some shots for us to see?

The Woodman · #6 (**permalink**) 07-11-2008, 06:59 AM

Good advice from Wild-woman. Presume your baby newts are beyond the external gill stage, if so, you could try live brine shrimps or tubifex worms which are available from pet shops. Wash the brine shrimps to get rid of excess salt though.

FrEdDy · #7 (**permalink**) 08-11-2008, 01:40 AM

They are Japanese Fire bellied newts.
The previous owner told me to feed them afids, worms and fruit flies.
Which I have, so i'm not sure why they aren't eating them!
I researched different sites as well, they say the same sorts of things.
One site said they go a stage for a week or two when they don't eat
anything, so I hope they are right!
Plus my tank was the same as his, so if the website is wrong i'm not sure
what the problem is. You never know if peoples websites are telling the truth,
but mostly they are.

I've tried putting some photo's up, it won't upload them at the moment.

I will try again soon, thanks for the help!