Alpine Newt – Facts and Information
The alpine newt (Ichthyosaura alpestris ) is a species of newt native to continental Europe and introduced to Great Britain and New Zealand. Adults measure 7–12 cm (2.8–4.7 in) and are usually dark grey to blue on the back and sides, with an orange belly and throat. Males are more conspicuously coloured than the drab females, especially during breeding season.
What Does an Alpine Newt look like?
The alpine newt is medium-sized and stocky. It reaches 7–12 cm (2.8–4.7 in) length in total, females measuring roughly 1–2 cm (0.39–0.79 in) longer than males, and a body weight of 1.4–6.4 g. The tail is compressed sideways and is half as long or slightly shorter than the rest of the body. During their life in water, both sexes develop a tail fin, and males a low (up to 2.5 mm), smooth-edged crest on their back. The cloaca of males swells during breeding season. The skin is smooth during the breeding season and granular outside it, and is velvety during the animal’s land phase.
The characteristic dark grey to bright blue of the back and sides is strongest during breeding season. This base colour may vary to greenish and is more drab and mottled in females. The belly and throat are orange and only occasionally have dark spots. Males have a white band with black spots and a light blue flash running along the flanks from the cheeks to the tail. During breeding season, their crest is white with regular dark spots. Juvenile efts, just after metamorphosis, resemble adult terrestrial females, but sometimes have a red or yellow line on the back.
Where is the Alpine Newt from?
The Alpine Newt (Ichthyosaura alpestris) is native to central Europe. It has become established in a few localities in Britain, often as a result of deliberate introductions.
Habitat
Alpine newts are mainly found in forested habitats for most of the year, the adults migrate to puddles, ponds, lakes or similar water bodies for breeding.
Diet
Adults feed on invertebrates. Larvae feed on small, aquatic invertebrates such as water fleas.
Reproduction
In the wild, alpine newts (Ichthyosaura alpestris) begin breeding at the end of winter or the beginning of summer depending on the region. These newts reach sexual maturity at 3 or 4 years old. Males are usually faster by six months to a year.
