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"The great crested newt is the largest and most threatened species of newt in Britain, growing up to 15cm long with a dark brown appearance and warty skin. They breed in ponds between March and June where the eggs hatch and develop.

"This species is in decline throughout the UK due to habitat loss; restoration and management of many known great crested newt ponds is needed.

"The project I'm working on aims to map all known great crested newt sites in the area, and they have been re-surveyed to check for this newts’ presence.

"As well as the ponds being surveyed for the presence of newts, the habitat up to 500m away from the pond is being mapped, marking suitable great crested newt territory and highlighting areas where parts can be made more wildlife-friendly.

"Some of the ponds have also dried up and/or overgrown and in the autumn when the newts’ offspring have left the ponds, then volunteers are needed to help."

Want to get involved?

Durham Wildlife Trust relies on volunteers, as it is a registered charity, and opportunities include:

• The Volunteer taskforce - this involves practical management on our 25 nature reserves, tasks include - tree felling, scrub control, coppicing, brash burning, tree planting, footpath maintenance, boardwalk construction, meadow cutting/raking, pond clearance, reed planting etc.
• Volunteer Reserve Wardens – keeping an eye on the condition of the nature reserves and reporting any problems.
• Education – opportunities are available for those wanting to participate on the Volunteer Reserve Officer scheme, do a work experience placement, research projects and get NVQ Level 2 Environmental Conservation experience.

To get involved in the Darlington newt project contact Rachel Jackson on 01325 388193 or rjackson@durhamwt.co.uk.