The three species of newt which are native to the UK are the Smooth Newt (Lissotriton vulgaris), the Palmate Newt (Lissotriton helveticus) and the Great Crested Newt (Triturus cristatus). These species are protected in England and Wales under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 as amended. Great Crested Newts are also recognised as a European protected species affording them greater protection including their eggs, breeding sites and any place used for shelter and resting.