Castle Cellars: Dino Newt Rescue Mission

At Tattershall Castle, National Trust ranger Nick Dunnett undertakes the unusual task of protecting the great crested newt population. These amphibians, sometimes called 'mini dinosaurs,' inhabit the castle's moat and surrounding grounds. During winter, some newts exploit old tunnels to seek shelter within the castle's cellars.

However, the castle's lime mortar bricks present a significant danger, capable of fatally damaging the newts' skin. When found in perilous locations, the newts are carefully rescued under strict wildlife legislation, with permission from Natural England. They are then relocated to specially constructed refuges around the grounds designed to offer safe hibernation.

This winter, six great crested newts have been rescued and rehoused. Nick Dunnett emphasizes that this work, which includes habitat management of the moat and surrounding areas, ensures the long-term health of the newt population. He highlights how caring for both the castle's history and its protected species is a deeply rewarding aspect of his job, ensuring the site remains vibrant with wildlife and wonder for the future.