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As
young
frogs, toads and
newts
make their first tentative steps onto land, summer ponds are
full of all sorts of other emerging life. Dragonfly and
damselfly larvae can be seen climbing out of ponds, water
boatmen flourish and pond snails hatch out in droves to hoover
up the pond algae. Like spring, it’s a great time of year for
torching.
Be wary of stone slabs near the pond at this time of year – in
hot, sunny weather emerging amphibians can quickly dry out and
die on hot paving slabs. You can stop this happening by covering
these areas temporarily with a damp towel, or a moist lawn roll.
Problem plants can be a continuing issue in the summer months,
and in many years some of the pond plants may need cutting back.
Be mindful of causing too much havoc at this time of year – many
invertebrates are particularly sensitive to disturbance.
In some parts of the UK, you might come across lots of dead or
dying frogs throughout the warmer months. If this is the case
please contact Froglife and help our research on amphibian
diseases.
Summer is also a likely time to see
grass
snakes make hunting forays into gardens, particularly in
areas where there are lots of amphibians. Grass snakes are the
ultimate compliment to your wildlife gardening.
Native amphibians and reptiles.
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Amphibian disease.
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Gardening with care.
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