Wildlife Conservation

Wild Great Crested Newt Conservation

Great crested newts are the UK's most legally protected amphibian, found in ponds across England and Wales. Conservation efforts include habitat creation and innovative licensing schemes.

Key Facts

Great crested newts are protected under the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017
Approximately 60% of Europe's great crested newts are found in the UK
District-level licensing schemes allow development to proceed with compensatory habitat creation
Ponds lose suitability rapidly through succession and require active management
Great crested newts cannot survive in ponds containing fish, making fish-free ponds critical

Welfare Considerations

Great crested newt conservation depends on creating and maintaining suitable fish-free ponds with adjacent terrestrial habitat. District licensing schemes have accelerated habitat creation and improved conservation outcomes.

What You Can Do

Create a fish-free wildlife pond to support great crested newt populations
Record great crested newt sightings through the Amphibian and Reptile Conservation Trust
Support district licensing scheme development that prioritises newt conservation outcomes