How to Care for an Eastern Newt
Eastern newts, Notophthalmus viridescens, require conditions similar to those of most newts in the pet trade. They are small, semi-aquatic amphibians that need a tank that is essentially part aquarium and part terrarium, and a supply of live food. Eastern newts are relatively hardy and not difficult to care for. However, with a potential life span of 15 years or more, eastern newts are certainly not pets to acquire on impulse. Amphibians are rarely suitable pets for children because of their specialized needs and the fact that you can't handle them.
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Things You'll Need
- 20-gallon or larger tank
- Light
- Slow-flow filter
- Large gravel
- Rocks
- Aquatic plants
- Live food
- Gravel cleaner
- Bucket
Instructions
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Create a habitat for the newts. Slope gravel in the tank to provide a raised land area covering about one third of the tank. Eastern newts may swallow small pieces of gravel, so use a large size. Position rocks to create hiding places. You can also pile up flat rocks to create the land area. Fill the tank with water, leaving the land area exposed. Let the tank settle for a day.
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Introduce aquatic plants in the water area and turn the light and filter on. Let the tank cycle for a few days to a week. A heater is unnecessary if the tank is in a warm room.
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Introduce the newts. They are social, so they should be kept in pairs or small groups.
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Feed the newts a variety of live food, such as bloodworms, chopped earthworms and mealworms.
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Remove about a quarter of the water once a week with the gravel cleaner and bucket. Replace with fresh, dechlorinated water. Focus on removing dirt and debris along with the water. You can dechlorinate tapwater by leaving it out in a bucket for 24 hours or use a commercial dechlorinator available in aquarium supply stores.
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Tips & Warnings
Don't handle your newts unless essential, as the oils in human skin are dangerous to amphibians. Wash your hands beforehand and keep them wet if you must touch the newts, but it is preferable to move your newts by ushering them into a plastic container.
Always ensure any amphibians or reptiles you acquire are captive bred. The trade in wild-caught exotic pets threatens the survival of their species. To find a good breeder, contact a local herpetological club.
