Northern banded newt

Mattia Menchetti


Northern banded newt

EXEWCRENVUNTLCDDNE

Population
20% estimated decline in 18 years

A fascinating amphibian that is known for its distinctive appearance and behaviors that is formerly considered a subspecies of the banded newt. This species primarily inhabits parts of Turkey, Georgia, and the surrounding regions, thriving in a range of freshwater habitats. Their striking coloration and patterns typically characterize them. The skin of these newts is usually smooth, with a series of bold, dark bands or stripes running across its body and tail, which are more pronounced in males, especially during the breeding season. The dorsal side is often greenish or brownish, contrasting with a lighter, sometimes speckled ventral side.

Northern banded newts are found in a variety of aquatic and semi-aquatic settings, including ponds, lakes, streams, and marshes. They prefer cool, clear water with abundant vegetation, which provides cover and breeding grounds. During the non-breeding season, they can also be found in moist, terrestrial environments such as forests and grasslands near their aquatic breeding sites.

These newts are primarily nocturnal and spend much of their time hidden under rocks, vegetation, or debris both in water and on land. They are carnivorous, feeding on a variety of invertebrates, such as insects, worms, and small crustaceans. During the breeding season, which typically occurs in spring, males develop more vivid coloration and pronounced skin ridges along their backs and tails to attract females.

Distribution

Country
Population est.
Status
Year
Comments
Armenia
2022
Georgia
2022
Russia
2022
European Russia
Turkey
2022
Türkiye-In-asia

Anything we've missed?

Help us improve this page by suggesting edits. Glory never dies!

Suggest an edit

Get to know me

Terrestrial / Aquatic

Altricial / Precocial

Polygamous / Monogamous

Dimorphic (size) / Monomorphic

Active: Diurnal / Nocturnal

Social behavior: Solitary / Pack / Herd

Diet: Carnivore / Herbivore / Omnivore / Piscivorous / Insectivore

Migratory: Yes / No

Domesticated: Yes / No

Dangerous: Yes / No