I had a quick dip in a pond at Wat Tyler CP this evening just before the sun had set. And when I say quick I mean I put the net in the water just the once! Along with a diving beetle larva was a small newt:
I thought it was rather small for a smooth newt, so checked under its chin and it was spotless, which made me look at its tail. It was a palmate newt!
I wasn’t aware they were present in the park. So I headed straight inside and took some photos with the aquarium set up.
I got some close ups too.
And one very close up.
I then put him back where I found him. Hopefully he is wooing some females as we speak!
Great find Neil and great shots as well!
Some really good stuff on your site, Neil. I especially like your underwater shots – you have got this down to a fine art. It’s unusual to see good quality close ups of newts, saucerbugs and leeches. You should capitalise on this!
Regards
John