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Ponds
are largely silent in winter, with little plant growth and
almost no movement from the depths.
Common
frogs are the only larger animal that might be visible. Male
frogs lie dormant on the bottom of the pond and on sunnier days
you might see them occasionally stir.
The biggest threat to pond animals in winter comes from ice.
Prolonged freezing stops gases from moving in and out of the
pond, leaving the water susceptible to a build-up of toxic gases
and chemicals released as animal and plant matter continues to
decompose. This can seriously damage the pond ecosystem,
affecting a number of animals (not least frogs, which can die of
so-called ‘winterkill’).
To avoid this, try to clear fallen snow from the ice so that
light can still enter the water. This means plants will still by
able to photosynthesise and produce oxygen. If you're able you
could also make holes in the ice during
frosty weather. Do this
by leaving a pan of hot water on the ice surface to melt a hole.
Alternatively leave a ball floating in the water the previous
day, and remove this once the pond has iced over. Never use
salt, antifreeze or chemicals. Don’t be tempted to smash the ice
either - the shock-waves can kill wildlife and ice shards could
puncture the liner. It's not clear how much these ice holes
benefit amphibians but they certainly won't cause any harm.
It's important to remember that in severe winters, despite your
best efforts, frog deaths are almost unavoidable.
FAQs: How can I help the frogs / toads in my garden
see out the
winter?
FAQs: How do I protect the creatures in my pond during
icy
weather? |