The Smooth Newt
Triturus vulgaris



The characteristic spots which are particularly visible in males have given this newt its name.
The male distinguishes itself from the female by its generally brighter colouring, the more conspicuous lines on the sides of the head, the crest along the spine and the distended cloaca during the breeding season.
When mating the male assumes an unmistakable appearance.
A slightly wavy crest goes along the spine and tail which has a pointed tip.
The lower part of the tail has an orange and pearly light-blue edge.
These newts have fringed toes.
A dark conspicuous line goes along both sides of the head, from the nostril over the eye and up to the neck.
The central band of the stomach area is a vivid colour varying from orange-yellow to orange-red and is spotted with dark marks which usually go down to the throat.
The female is a little smaller than the male (an exception to other newts), and uniformly brown in colour without spots on the sides of the body.
The stomach and throat are similar to the male’s.