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  you are in: ANIMALS > IDENTIFICATION > NEWTS Vs LIZARDS



Newts vs lizards

Newts and lizards have very similar body shapes and are easily confused. Generally, lizards are very quick-moving so if you can catch it, it’s a newt! 

Head
O Newts have round eyes with small black pupils; the head is smooth (not scaly).
O Lizards have distinct scales; they have a pointy face and large black pupils.

Body
O Newts have smooth or ‘warty’ skin which tends to be brown or black, sometimes with visible markings, such as a stripe down the back or black spots; males may display a ridge or crest during the spring.
O Lizards have scaly skin (which has a 'beaded' texture); they’re usually a shade of brown or green and have patterns along the back; they can drop their tails.

Legs
O Newts have long toes which may be webbed or stripy; there are four toes on the front pair of legs.
O Lizards also have long toes but with small claws; there are five toes on the front pair of legs. If disturbed lizards will normally run away very quickly.