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  you are in: ADVICE > FAQs > NEWTS > UNUSUAL COLOUR



Advice and Resources

Frequently Asked Questions about...

Newts

I've found an unusually coloured newt, is it ill or an exotic species?

Quick answer
Odd-coloured amphibians usually turn out to be healthy, native species that have unusual colouring.

Further information
The UK's amphibians are much more variable in their colouration than is often thought. This can sometimes make identification difficult but does mean that whatever you've seen is likely to be a healthy, native species rather than anything that's ill or exotic.

Smooth newts, for example, can appear orange, cream or pale green; these are natural genetic variations in the population.

Unless the newt seems otherwise unhealthy, it's unlikely to be anything to worry about. If you're concerned the newt is ill or suffering, please contact a local vet or wildlife hospital.

More on...
O Native newts.
O Non-native newts.
O I've found an ill newt.