Great crested newts are protected across Europe and depend on networks of ponds for breeding. Pond creation, management, and protection from pollution are the most important welfare interventions available.
Individual great crested newts depend on specific ponds for breeding and surrounding terrestrial habitats for the majority of their lives. Pond desiccation, pollution, or predator introductions directly threaten individual welfare. Pond creation and management that maintains water quality, appropriate depth, and aquatic vegetation provides essential breeding habitat and directly benefits individual newt welfare.