Things that you can take along to help you explore and collect your finds are: a net for catching the pond animals that you want to observe, containers to safely hold your catch, (such as clear plastic jars), a magnifying glass to observe tiny organisms closely, and a notebook and pencil to write down your findings. You will need a pair of Wellington boots as you're likely to tread on muddy land! Also make sure that you have got company - as well as being safer it's always more fun when there are more people!
Once you approach your pond, find a safe place, trying not to tread too close to the edge as it may dislodge and kill animals living there. Find a place away from the edge, near enough to dip in your net and collect your find in a container. Once you've got your catch use your magnifying glass to look at what you've got closely, and make some notes about what you can see. It may take a few attempts to find different insects and animals in your net, but perseverance will pay off! Some will be fragile so make sure you take great care. Once you're happy with your observations, dont forget to put your finds back where you found them.
A word of caution: If children want to go pond dipping, remember an adult must accompany them at all times. Always be careful while handling pond animals, and never pick up insects and animals in hands as they may bite. It's also better to be safe than sorry, so if you suspect the pond may be polluted with chemicals or effluent, give it a miss and try somewhere else!
There are many nature reserves, parks and gardens in South West Wales that feature ponds and water habitats, many of which have organised pond dipping activities. Click on the links below to find out more from our Places to go section.
Why not explore a virtual pond before you try the real thing? The Canterbury Environmental Education Centre website provides a guide to some of the smaller creatures that you may find - click here to visit the pond explorer.
Even smaller pond life can be seen through a microscope. The Microscopy-UK website features a Pond Life Identification Kit - a simple guide to small and microscopic pond life - click here to have a closer look.
You can try out Pond dipping, along with dragonfly hunts, discovery trails and lots more at the Wildfowl and Wetlands Centre in Llanelli, running through July and the Summer Holidays.
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Many nature reserves feature ponds and wading birds - why not check out our Reserves section in Places to Go - More ...
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Secret Life of Ponds - 2
