|
|
Ponds
Quick answer
Most ponds will tolerate natural fluctuations in water levels
though some small ponds may benefit.
Further
information
During warm weather it is natural for the level of water in a
pond to drop. Most of the ponds inhabitants can tolerate these
fluctuations but in very small ponds it can be a problem,
especially if there are tadpoles present.
In these situations it's best to use rain water, if it is
available. If not, tap water is usually ok in small doses. Make
sure it is left to stand for at least 24hrs to allow the
chemicals to settle out and for the temperature to adjust -
adding large volumes of water that is a different temperature
can shock the pond. Tap water may also encourage algae to grow
(turning the water green) so keep an eye on this.
It has been suggested that the recent use of chloramines, rather
than chlorine, by water companies could be extremely harmful to
amphibians as they persist in the water longer - i.e. will not
have settled out after 24hrs. This is another reason why tap
water should be avoided, if possible. There are products
available to buy that will remove chloramines from water and
make it safe.
In larger ponds there may be no need for topping up but make
sure there are still exit routes for emerging amphibians and add
some 'frog ladders' if necessary, e.g. planks of wood, a length
of pipe or plants.
If a pond is seriously at risk of drying out, consider removing
some silt to deepen it at the appropriate time of year.
When to work
on the pond.
A pond has dried out.
|