What Should I Know About Newt Care?

Newts can be found relaxing among the rocks in creeks and rivers. They are docile creatures that fascinate nature enthusiasts. A person may also decide to keep a newt for a pet, although it is never recommended to remove an animal from his natural habitat. However, if someone owns a newt as a pet, there are several things he should know about newt care.

Newts will not eat in an environment where they aren't comfortable. When setting up an aquarium for the newt, imitate its natural environment. There should be an area for the newt to swim in, as well as a sandy, rock-covered area to bask in the artificial sunlight.

Newts benefit from having plenty of hiding spaces such as hollowed-out logs and rocks. They are skittish creatures that prefer to stay in hiding when they sense danger. Proper newt care also involves regulating the temperature in the aquarium; usually done with an ultraviolet light. Keep the aquarium out of direct sunlight to avoid overheating the newt.

Pet newt care involves feeding it foods that it would find in its natural environment, about three times per week. The easiest food to feed your newt are worms. Keep the worm alive until feeding time, as newts prefer fresh food. House the worm in a bowl of moist dirt, in a cool area, such as the refrigerator. Worms will stay alive, even after being cut.

When it is time to feed the newt, stretch it out lengthwise on a cutting board. Cut off approximately a quarter inch (0.64 cm)of the worm to feed to the newt. Chop the piece of worm into tiny, bite size morsels for the newt to eat. Never cut off more than the newt will eat in one meal.

Dangle the piece of worm in front of the newt using a pair of tweezers. If the newt is hungry, it will eat. Newt care also involves feeding it a variety of foods such as brine shrimp and mosquito larvae. As soon as the newt has finished eating, remove the uneaten food from the aquarium.

Newt care also consists of changing the water in the aquarium twice a week. The water should be drained and replaced with water that has been sitting at room temperature for at least 24 hours. This will remove the bacteria in the water caused by feeding the newt live food.

To mimic their natural environment, newts require a semi-aquatic habitat known as a paludarium. This includes both land and water areas, with clean, dechlorinated water for swimming and moist areas with hiding spots for rest. The water should be kept at a consistent temperature suitable for the species, typically between 65-75°F (18-24°C).

Newts should be fed every 2-3 days, with a diet consisting of live or frozen food such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, or daphnia. Juveniles require more frequent feeding, usually once a day. It's important to provide a variety of foods to ensure a balanced diet and remove any uneaten food to prevent water contamination.

While newts don't require specialized UV lighting like some reptiles, they do benefit from a regular day-night cycle. This can be provided by natural room lighting. If you choose to use artificial lighting, avoid overly bright lights as newts are sensitive creatures. A low-wattage LED or fluorescent bulb can simulate daylight without causing stress.

Regular water changes are crucial for maintaining water quality. Change about 20-25% of the water weekly, ensuring the new water is dechlorinated and the same temperature as the tank to prevent shocking the newts. Additionally, a gentle filtration system can help keep the water clean without creating strong currents that newts dislike.

Newts have sensitive skin that can absorb harmful substances, so handling should be minimal and hands should be thoroughly washed before and after. Handling can be stressful for newts, so it's best to observe them within their habitat. If necessary, gently scoop them up with a soft net or wet hands to minimize stress.

Common health issues in newts include fungal infections, skin lesions, and metabolic bone disease. To prevent these, ensure a clean habitat, proper diet, and correct temperature. Quarantine new additions to prevent the spread of disease. If you notice any signs of illness, consult a veterinarian with experience in amphibians immediately.