The crested newt

Meer over het boek

For a small, inconspicuous, and largely nocturnal animal, the crested newt garners significant attention. Scientists worldwide have dedicated decades to tracking crested newt populations, revealing that they can live up to 17 years in the wild and travel over 1 km in just a few weeks. Research has clarified why these newts are confined to specific pond types. Due to their protected status, governments are mandated to create nature reserves and monitor their populations. Many people fondly recall childhood experiences of catching crested newts and speculate on their declining numbers. Their captivating courtship dance has also enchanted those who observe them in spring. However, developers often face challenges when encountering crested newts on properties intended for housing, as this can have significant financial repercussions. This work compiles research and observations on the six species of crested newt, exploring their taxonomy, biology, ecology, and behavior. It includes the latest findings, particularly concerning the great crested newt in the UK, with an emphasis on conservation and management. The aim is to support the conservation of crested newts, which are facing declines in many regions, by providing an updated overview of our understanding of these species.