FAQs about newts: habitat threatened

Great crested newts and their habitats are protected by law (Fred Holmes)

WILDLIFE INFORMATION SERVICE

Frequently Asked Questions about... newts:

A newt habitat is threatened, what can be done?

Of the widespread species of amphibian, only the great crested newt is protected by law from intentional killing and injury; their habitats (including ponds and key foraging areas) are also protected. All of the UK's rare amphibians and reptiles (natterjack toad, pool frog, smooth snakes and sand lizard) are protected in the same way. If you suspect incidents where this law might be being flouted, please inform us.

In England (under Section 41 of the Natural Environment and Rural Communities (NERC) Act 2006) all public bodies must have regard for great crested newts, and common toads, (specifically under 'biodiversity conservation') when carrying our their functions.

In Wales, Section 40(1) of the NERC Act 2006 places a new duty on every public authority, in exercising its functions, to 'have regard, so far as is consistent with the proper exercise of those functions, to the purpose of conserving biodiversity'. The duty affects all public authorities. Local authorities are a key target group, but the duty also affects a wide range of public bodies, including fire, police, health and transport authorities.

In addition, Planning Policy Statement 9 (PPS9) states that planning authorities should ensure that species of principal importance, including great crested newts and common toads, are protected from the adverse effects of development.

More information:

Identifying amphibians. >>>

Species Action Plans. >>>

Advice sheet: amphibian and reptile habitats threatened with development. >>>

Biodiversity Duty (England). >>>

Biodiversity Duty (Wales). >>>

Partnership for Action Against Wildlife Crime (PAW). >>>