How do you measure a newt?

[russell]

How do you measure a newt? I know that CFBs can be 2 to three inches long. Does that include the tail or is that the nose to base of tail length?

Thanks!

 

[coen]

newts are measured in the whole length

 

[jennifer]

In scientific papers, either measure may be used. Sometimes they use total length (includes the tail) and sometimes snout-vent length (excludes the tail). For hobbyists, it's generally total length that is used.

Total length can sometimes be a little deceptive. I have a male and female Cynops e. ensicauda that have the same total length. But the female is younger and much smaller, because females of this species have longer tails in proportion to their size. In this case, snout-vent length would be a better comparison.

 

[david]

I measure a newt by his heart and moral character

 

[russell]

Thanks all. Especially Dave

. I am trying to get an idea how old my little newt is. No way to know since he is store bought and about an inch and a half snout to vent.