FAQs about newts: encouraging

Newts need pond plants they can lay eggs on (Fred Holmes)

WILDLIFE INFORMATION SERVICE

Frequently Asked Questions about... newts:

How can I encourage newts into my garden?

Amphibians require ponds to breed, so adding a pond to your garden is the best way to encourage them. Consider size, shape and location of your pond before starting work (see our Just Add Water section) and do not add fish as they will feed on spawn/eggs.

Newts are more likely to breed in ponds that possess plant species in which they can wrap up their eggs. Those ponds that contain small broad-leafed plants, such as water mint Mentha aquatica and water forget-me-not Myosotis scorpioides, could be particularly good for this purpose.

If you do not have a pond (or space to create one), your garden can still benefit amphibians and they may make use of it if there are water bodies near by. Amphibians spend the majority of their life on land and prefer a variety of habitats in which to forage, shelter and overwinter (hibernate). They will make use of log and stone piles, long grass, compost heaps and even nooks and crannies under your shed, decking or greenhouse. Habitats that provide shelter, stay damp and provide a good source of insects and slugs to feed on are particularly beneficial. See our Dragons in your Garden section for more details.

More information:

What kind of pond plants will benefit amphibians and are there any to avoid? >>>

Dragons in your Garden. >>>

Identifying amphibians. >>>