Showing posts with label Newt. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Newt. Show all posts

Friday, August 28, 2009

License to Handle Warty Newts

The warty newt or the great-crested newt is the largest newt (reaching up to 7 inches) that lives in Europe. Its first name comes from the small bumps that cover it’s back. Their purpose is to secrete a milky, foul-smelling substance that deters predators from preying on it. Its other name comes from the rock-like crest that develop on males during mating season. These newts can live up to 16 years, and like all newts, they can regenerate body parts.


Bonus Fact: In Europe, you need a required license to handle the warty newt.