P.waltl colour change

[pemby123]

Hi,

We have a Spanish ribbed newt. Im unsure how old it is but its at least 4 or 5 years old (possibly in its teens according to some staff). Recently it has changed colour drastically from light grey to dark black There are staff who have worked with this newt for many years who have never seen it change like this. Im at a loss as to what may have caused it. The diet has not changed. It is possible that it has been handled more frequently than it used to but it has always been handled regularly. We are fairly sure shes a female.
Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

 

[Azhael]

Re: Waltl colour change

Well, it could be just a sign that shedding is aproaching. It could also be caused by colder temperatures or just an hormonal change in the animal.
Being 4-5 years old, it should be an adult unless it´s been seriously neglected (this species can reach adulthood in a year).
Something that i would like to stress is that handling should be avoided. These animals become stressed when in contact with humans, plus there is a risk of damaging their delicate skin. Do not handle it unles absolutely necessary.

Also, take a look at this caresheet in case you haven´t already:
Caudata Culture Species Entry - Pleurodeles waltl

 

[JM29]

Hi, Pemby123

I had some problems, similar to yours, with my ribbed newts :
an abnormal dark color, wich was due to an abnormal shedding. The animals couldn't shed in one piece, the old skin remained on the body. Nevertheless, the dark layer went away easily when I handled them.

I only had this problem with animals in cold water (winter) and no light. Now, with light, and a lot of plants, my newts remain more active and I haven't had this problem any more.

I don't know the exact cause of this problem, and I can't be sure you have the same.

Friendly