Amphibians

Some newt populations in Europe have decreased because of pollution or destruction of their breeding sites and terrestrial habitats; countries such as the UK have taken steps to halt their declines. In the UK, newts are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, and the Habitat Regulations Act 1994. It is illegal to catch, possess or handle Great crested newts without a licence, and it is also illegal to cause them harm or death, or to disturb their habitat in any way. The IUCN Red List categorises the species as ‘lower risk’. Although the other UK species, the Smooth newt and Palmate newt are not listed, the sale of either species is prohibited under the Wildlife and Countryside Act, 1981.

Surrey Amphibian & Reptile Group: www.surrey-arg.org.uk (Contact by website only)