Small water bodies

Pond

Ponds are shallow bodies of standing water that remain filled with water year-round. Compared to pools, they are usually somewhat deeper. Larger plants, such as reeds, can grow in the water. Amphibians and dragonfly larvae find a habitat here, and birds, such as the gray heron, find food.

Note: When building a pond, it’s a good idea to consult a professional.

Materials:

• If the soil is not loamy (i.e., water-impermeable), use pond liner
• stones, roots, sand, gravel
• Optional: native aquatic plants
• Shovel or excavator

Location:

• Sunny to partial shade
• Not directly under trees (falling leaves in the fall lead to an excess of nutrients)
• Away from roads

Setup:

• Dig or excavate a hole in a suitable location.
  • Area: at least 4 m²
  • Depth: at least 60 cm so that the pond does not freeze completely in winter.
• Clear the pit of stones and roots and line it with pond liner.
• Line the bottom with sand and gravel.
• Fill with rainwater.
• Add roots and stones if desired.
• Include at least one gently sloping bank area with several entry points from land into the water (so that animals can climb out of the pond on their own).
• After 1–2 days (once the water has settled), plant native aquatic plants or leave it unplanted and wait to see what grows on its own.
• Place various small structures nearby to provide shelter for small animals:
  • Reptile den
  • Pile of leaves
  • Pile of branches
  • Deadwood structure

Care:

• Do not keep fish (fish eat spawn and larvae).
• Remove fallen leaves regularly in the fall
• Thin out plants that are growing too densely
• Do not use fertilizer or compost nearby
• Keep part of the pond ice-free in winter (e.g., place a bundle of reeds in the water)
• Leave a small section untouched.
• Leave the cut material for 1-2 days next to the pond so small animals can crawl back.

Function:

• Serves as a spawning ground for amphibians and a laying site for dragonflies.
• Serves as a source of water and food for various small animals.

Related links, brochures, and fact sheets:

• More information on creating a water feature to support amphibians
• Step-by-Step Guide: Creating an Amphibian Pond
• Practical tips for creating a dragonfly pond

Ponds and Puddles

Ponds and puddles are shallow bodies of water that are mainly fed by rainwater and may dry up periodically. They tend to form in sunny locations on loamy or impermeable soils. The fact that they dry up from time to time prevents fish from establishing themselves and creates a valuable habitat for specialized species. For example, the yellow-bellied toad, the natterjack toad, and various dragonfly species find suitable spawning and rearing grounds here. The moist clay along the water’s edge is also used by some bird species as building material for their nests.

Materials:

• Shovel and pickaxe (for larger projects, possibly an excavator)
• If necessary, a tamper or vibrating plate for compacting the soil
• If there is no loamy soil available (i.e., water-impermeable), then use pond liner
• Stones, roots, or deadwood as small-scale structures

Construction:

• Dig several shallow depressions of varying sizes (at least ½ m²) and depths (at least 30 cm).
• Create zones of varying depths (approx. 20–60 cm; some deeper areas are possible).
• The pool should hold enough water between May and August.
• If the soil is not dense enough, it can be supplemented with clay or improved by compacting it.
• Design gently sloping banks so that animals can enter and exit easily.
• Create additional small-scale structures such as piles of branches, deadwood, rock piles, or open clay areas in the immediate vicinity.

Function:

• Habitat for specialized amphibians such as the yellow-bellied toad and the natterjack toad.
• Nursery waters for various dragonfly species and other aquatic insects.
• A source of water and food for numerous small animals.
• Moist clay serves as nesting material for some bird species.
• Because the water bodies dry up periodically, they usually remain fish-free and are particularly well-suited as amphibian spawning grounds.

Location:

• A sunny location, preferably sheltered from the wind.
• Soil that is as water-retentive or impermeable as possible (e.g., clay).
• Natural depressions are particularly well-suited.
• Create several ponds of varying sizes and depths next to each other.
• Keep a safe distance from roads or heavily used areas.

Maintenance:

• Do not introduce fish.
• In the fall: Remove excess, decaying plant material.
• Leave one section untouched.
• Let cut material lie next to the ponds for 1–2 days so that small animals can crawl back.
• Do not prevent periodic drying out.

Further links, brochures, and fact sheets:

• Practical Guide: Creating Your Own Ponds