Spanish Ribbed Newt

Spanish Ribbed Newt

Scientific Name – Pleurodeles waltl

Classification – Salamandridae

Baby Name – Eft

Collective Noun – There is no collective noun for newts, but it can be called a band

Average Length – Up to 30 cm (12 in)

Speed – Fast moving

Life Expectancy – 7 to 10 years

Breeding Season – Spring and fall

Special Features – Possess sharp ribs with tubercles running down each side; has a flat, spade-shaped head and a long tail

Family Unit – Solitary except during the mating season

Geographical Distribution – Spain, Portugal, Morocco

World Population – Decreasing

Conservation Status – Near Threatened

Natural Habitat – Arid habitats, temporary and permanent ponds, swamps, canals, other stagnant or slow-moving waterbodies

Diet – Insects, worms, tadpoles

Predators – Juveniles and eggs fall prey to fishes whereas adults are preyed upon by foxes, grass snakes, birds like heron