eDNA Kits

Great Crested Newt eDNA

The great crested newt (Triturus cristatus) is the UK’s most heavily protected amphibian species, having suffered huge population declines in the last century. House builders and other developers, must, survey potential breeding ponds to establish if newts are present on development sites. Ecologists can use eDNA, as the latest addition to a variety of survey methods, to do this.

Great crested newts (GCN), release eDNA into the ponds in which they live when they deposit; skin cells, faeces, mucus, sperm or eggs into the water. The DNA in this material can persist, and be detected, in the water for several weeks. Research published in 2013 established a technique for reliably detecting newt eDNA in water bodies, and Natural England subsequently approved a protocol for this to become a survey method.

TECHNICAL GUIDANCE

FAQs

Q: Where are my results analysed?

Wildcare are proud to work with a leading eDNA laboratory to provide the kits and analysis service. In Natural England's proficiency testing, they have acheived 100% over the last 4 years (2024, 2023, 2022, and 2021).

Q: How many kits do I need?

A: As per Natural England's guidance, it is recommended to have one kit per pond up to one hectare. For larger ponds, one kit per hectare is advised.

Q: How long does it take for my collection kit to be delivered?

A: Kits are delivered in accordance with our standard delivery time of 1-2 working days. We aim for a next-working day service for all mainland UK orders if placed before 2:30pm, and is free for orders of over £75 (ex VAT)

Q: Do the kits expire?

A: Kits do have an expiry date of 3 months from manufacture, which is sufficient to last the full great crested newt survey season. It is recommended to keep them in cool or ambient conditions to maintain sample quality. We find that some clients do have kits leftover at the end of each season, so in line with our commitment to sustainability, we offer refills of preservative only. 100% of the kit contents can be recycled at the laboratory.

Q: Can I survey for GCN at any time of year?

A: To meet compliance requirements and for the results to be accepted by Natural England, samples should be collected during the newt breeding season. This starts mid-April with a deadline of 30th June each year. They can be collected at any time of day, and within reasonable weather conditions. Heavy rainfall should be avoided to avoid diluting your sample.

Q: How long can I keep my samples before returning for analysis?

A: After sampling, aim to return your kits for analysis as soon as possible to ensure accurate results. Higher temperatures or direct sunlight can denature DNA, so if you are unable to return the kits immediately, they can be kept up to 2 weeks in ambient conditions or up to 4 weeks in a refridgerator.

Q: How do I return them for analysis?

A: Returning your kits can't be easier, and you don't need to pre-book the analysis. Just complete the form included within your kit and send it to our lab. We recommend using a courier service, such as DPD Local, who offer a collection and next working day delivery. It is important that collections are not booked on a Friday, as they won't reach the lab until Monday and will be stored in unknown conditions.

Q: How will I receive my results?

A: You'll get your results from our lab by email within your requested timeframe. A negative result means no Great Crested Newt eDNA was detected, so we can infer that the pond is not being used by GCN within the previous 3-4 weeks. Very rarely, results are inconclusive and in this case a new sample should be collected and retested.

Have any further questions?

If you want to find out more, speak to a member of our team by emailling [email protected], or call 01451 833181. We also have resources on eDNA and other newt surveying techniques on our blog.