Amphibian · Newt
Eastern newt care guide
Notophthalmus viridescens
The eastern newt is a intermediate-level newt from Eastern North America incl. southern Canada. Adults reach 7–12 cm and live 12–15 years in captivity. Captive-bred only. The juvenile red eft stage lives on land.
- Enclosure 60 × 30 × 30 cm
- Temp 18–22°C
- Humidity 70–80%
How much does a eastern newt cost in Canada?
Eastern newt quick facts
- Skill level
- Intermediate
- Adult size
- 7–12 cm
- Lifespan
- 12–15 years
- Activity
- Diurnal
- Native range
- Eastern North America incl. southern Canada
- Minimum enclosure
- 60 × 30 × 30 cm (24 × 12 × 12 in, ≈ 14 US gal)
- Housing
- Up to 3 can share; add about 40% more floor space for each extra animal.
- Temperature
- 18–22°C
- Humidity
- 70–80%
- UVB
- Not needed
- Diet
- Carnivore – bloodworms, earthworms, small insects
- Bioactive style
- Semi-aquatic (paludarium)
Eastern newt enclosure & bioactive setup
Give one adult at least 60 × 30 × 30 cm (24 × 12 × 12 inches). Up to 3 can share; add about 40% more floor space for each extra animal. This species suits a semi-aquatic (paludarium) bioactive build.
- Leaf litter2 cm
- Jurassic ABG Terrarium Mix8 cm
- Drainage – clay bio balls4 cm
Quantities assume about half the floor is land. The water half needs a filter and regular partial water changes.
Temperature: 18–22°C. Humidity: 70–80%. UVB: Not needed.
What does a eastern newt eat?
Carnivore – bloodworms, earthworms, small insects. Feed adults every 2–3 days.
Handling, temperament & health
Minimal handling with cool, wet hands; toxic skin.
Health watch: Skin infections and overheating.
Cleaning & maintenance schedule
Daily
- Check water and air temperature; feed according to species.
Weekly
- Change 20–30% of the water with dechlorinated water.
- Rinse filter sponge in old tank water (never tap water) as needed.
Monthly
- Top up leaf litter on land; prune plants at the waterline.
Yearly
- Service the pump/filter fully.
Recommended for a eastern newt bioactive
Quantities are for one minimum-size enclosure (60 × 30 × 30 cm).
Clay Bio Balls
Drainage layer, 4 cm
Jurassic ABG Terrarium Mix
Bioactive soil layer, 8 cm
Almond Leaves Dried 15/Pack
Leaf litter – food and cover for the clean-up crew
Fresh Sphagnum Moss Container
Moss for humidity pockets and planting
Malaysian Drift Wood
Bridges water and land; easy exit from the water
Cork Bark Flats
Shelter on the land section
Eastern newt FAQ
Is the eastern newt good for beginners?
The eastern newt is best for keepers with some experience (intermediate). Minimal handling with cool, wet hands; toxic skin.
What size enclosure does a eastern newt need?
At least 60 × 30 × 30 cm (about 24 × 12 × 12 inches, roughly 14 US gallons) for one adult. Up to 3 can share; add about 40% more floor space for each extra animal.
How much does a eastern newt cost in Canada?
Typically $20–40 CAD to buy, about $290–530 CAD for a complete bioactive enclosure, and $80–150 CAD a year to keep.
What temperature and humidity does a eastern newt need?
Temperature: 18–22°C. Humidity: 70–80%.
What does a eastern newt eat?
Carnivore – bloodworms, earthworms, small insects. Feed adults every 2–3 days.
Similar species
This care sheet is general guidance from One Bioactive, not veterinary advice. Needs vary with age, locality and individual animals – confirm with your breeder and an exotics vet. Prices are typical Canadian ranges in CAD and change over time.