There are three types of newt in the UK - the Great-crested Newt, the Palmated Newt and the Smooth Newt. The Smooth Newt is also known as the Common Newt and is the one you are most likely to see in a pond. This one was in the Tarn, or Slipper Lake. Smooth Newts are usually various shades of grey and brown, the one below is probably a female. In the spring, during breeding season, the male takes on quite a different appearance. He has a small crest, which runs down the entire length of his back. The male also has very striking patterns of spots and stripes. Newts will periodically surface to get a gulp of air - which is what this one was doing.