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Lucy H
The summer holidays are in full swing. Not managed to get to the beach this summer? Have a go at pond dipping, an activity similar to rock pooling – available at RSPB Sandwell Valley!
Nature’s reach is open 10am-5pm Tuesday to Sunday throughout the holidays. Come before 4pm to hire your equipment. In your set will be a net, a white tray to view creatures, a magnifying glass and spoon, for just £3 (Please do not use your own nets as this could contaminate our ponds and upset the little critters).

There are so many creatures to see in our ponds. From phantom midge larvae, leeches to newts and water beetles among many others!
Leech - Jackie Cooper (rspb-images.com)
 
 
 
A great diving beetle larvae - a ferocious pond predator but harmless to humans!
 
 
Quick Fire Pond Creature Facts
  • Did you know newts can regenerate many parts of their bodies, their limbs, eyes and even heart!
  • Greater Water Boatman, these common pond creatures eat through a tube that they stick into tadpoles and suck out all the yummy juices!   
  • Try and find a caddisfly nymph, these amazing youngsters are experts at camouflage. You better look closely otherwise you might think they’re just sticks and stones!  

A newt I discovered when pond dipping
 
 
 
Getting up-close to a young smooth newt (left) and its water-dwelling larvae (right).
 
Top Tips for Pond Dipping
  1.  In open water use a figure of eight sweep of your net to ensure you catch some creatures
  2.   In more weedy areas use a back and forth motion so you can catch the bugs that get dislodged
  3. Remember that you are taking the creatures from their homes. Be kind to them and when you finished looking, gently return them to their habitat.
  4. Be patient and look carefully at your discoveries. Some things might be hiding or creatures like the phantom midge larvae are nearly invisible – like ghosts!

If you want any other information just call our visitor centre Nature’s Reach on 0121 357 7395 or email alex.sharrod@rspb.org.uk.

Remember – pond dipping isn’t just for kids – I’m 24 and I absolutely love it! You never know what you might find.

Imogen, Connecting People and Nature Intern, RSPB Sandwell Valley

My very amateur wildlife photos: instagram.com/lucy_lapwing