The Smooth Newt is the species most commonly encountered in garden ponds and we can all do our bit to help them, as Dr Wilkinson explains.

"Everyone can help by having a small, or large garden pond populated by native aquatic plants and kept free of fish which will eat young newts," he said.

Amorous amphibians are a key part of UK springtime, so this year why not forgo the frogs and instead nurture a newt by digging a wildlife pond.