Alpine Newt Ichthyosaura/Mesotriton alpestris

The Alpine Newt is native to part of continental Europe. In recent years it has been introduced and established in the UK and some of its several subspecies have been split out as full species.

They are 7-12cm long and have an orange underside - usually without spots, although the flanks are spotted. Males are more colourful in the breeding season with blue flanks and a small crest. They are not restricted to alpine habitats. They are mainly terrestrial, also hibernating on land, but return to water to breed.