The common newt is found all across Ireland where there is suitable habitat is found. They favour ponds and shallow lake sides. The smooth newt is the only newt native to Ireland, and it is protected there under the Wildlife Acts (1976 and 2000). It is an offence to capture or kill a newt in Ireland without a licence. Both sexes are of similar size (roughly 10 cm head-to-tail length), and a similar pale brown to yellow colour. Adult smooth newts emerge from hibernation on land from late February to May, and head towards fresh water to breed. At this time, both sexes become more strikingly and colourfully marked, with vivid spots and orange bellies. The male also develops a wavy crest along the back and tail to the sexes are clearly different during the breeding season. Once fertilised, after a few days the female starts to lay eggs. These are placed individually, usually under aquatic plant leaves at a rate of seven to 12 eggs per day. Altogether, a total of 400 eggs may be produced over the season. After two to three weeks (depending on water temperature), the eggs hatch to a larval form to a tadpole or eft. As the tadpoles mature, they develop legs (front first), and the growth and use of their lungs is matched by a gradual shrinkage of the gills. Over 10 weeks the larva gradually shift from being fully aquatic to having a body suitable for living on land. (Some may over winter in the larval state, only emerging from the water the following year).
