Skins
Amphibians’ lungs are weak so they also use their skins for breathing. Most amphibian skins are slightly moist in water which helps this process, although toad skins are drier and not as effective for oxygen exchange. The skin of the Common Newt changes when the adult leaves the water after breeding – instead of remaining moist, it becomes soft and velvety.
Common Frogs also use their skins for drinking – they can absorb moisture through them and in hot weather they will often jump out to sit on the grass during a summer shower or when a garden sprinkler is turned on.
Both Common Toads and Great Crested Newts secrete foul-tasting toxins in their skins which ooze out when handled. This is designed to make predators spit them out.