Instructions
Build a habitat for the newt. Place about 2 to 3 inches of soil at the bottom of the habitat and add several plants and rocks to provide cool, dark areas. Place a small body of water on one end of the habitat so one side of the enclosure is kept dry while the other provides moisture just in case.
Place the enclosure in a room that does not have too much sunlight, particularly during the summer months. Provide limited and low-intensity light in the enclosure so the newt will be encouraged to leave its hiding place during the day. The most comfortable temperature for the newts depends on its location of origin, with more southern newts, from Thailand, accustomed to higher temperatures while those from China and Nepal prefer temperatures to be a little lower. The highest temperature for either should peak at 75 degrees Fahrenheit and be no lower than 50.
Feed the newt primarily small food, such as insects and worms. Preferred foods include wax worms, earthworms, mealworms, crickets, white and brown slugs and cabbage-white caterpillars, as well as chopped up night crawlers and pinkie mice. Stay away from feeding the newt "people food" or anything bigger than its mouth.
Observe the newt's behavior. When first acclimating to a new habitat, emperor newts typically isolate themselves. It is not uncommon for the newt to refuse food during this period. Once the newt is accustomed to the surroundings it may begin venturing out from its hiding spot more often during the day and feed more eagerly. If you are interested in breeding, maintain a female-to-male ratio of 3:1 or 2:2.
How to Care for an Emperor Newt
Emperor newts, also known as Mandarin newts, are a highly toxic breed of newt native to southeast Asia. The newt grows to approximately 8 inches long, has a ridged head and back with two rows of bumps along its length and is almost entirely orange except for black areas on the back. Although toxic the breed is not aggressive and can be handled. While primarily terrestrial, proper care for emperor newts requires a water source included in their habitat.