This ‘Pond Dipping’ kit can be used to do just that, or more accurately, to carry out a freshwater invertebrate survey of ponds and small streams, and for pond/stream water sampling by a class of school children, led by a teacher. The equipment is suitable for use across a range of habitat areas. You will need (for a class of 30): Help to identify any creatures they find by encouraging them to find it on the ID Guide themselves and read all of the information. Groups should complete their recording sheet (select recording method appropriate to the age and ability of the students) as they go along. If you are using a class observation tray for follow-up work later on, once the creatures are identified and recorded, they can be transferred to this. Thoroughly clean all tools after pond dipping. Make sure there are definitely no creatures or pondweed in your collecting pots or nets.

Grab a net and delve into pond dipping when you visit us during spring and summer. We have everything you need to discover a whole new world of wetland species: nets, trays, magnifying glasses and identity cards. Our friendly Learning Team are also on hand to help and answer any questions you may have.

Pond dipping kit – what you need

Gills, streamlining, hairy leg paddles, webbed feet, air bubbles/sacs, siphons that work like snorkels and use of surface tension are all examples of adaptations to life on or in water. Teacher Demonstration Pond Dipping Lesson Plan – can be carried out within a 1-hour lesson (excluding preparation) Preparation

Stay Safe! Students should not fill or empty the observation trays at the pond edge themselves, you or other supervising adults should do it for them as it risks the students falling into the Like any activity that takes place in nature. It is so important to always be safe and ensure the safety of the pond dippers as well as the safety of the wildlife you will be handling. It’s also important to be considerate of nature and leave an area as you find it.You could take part in the OPAL Water Survey, the ‘Big Spawn Count’ or the ‘Big Pond Dip’ Recording Sheets

The small pond in Dunorlan Park, situated near the playground, is available to groups for educational pond dipping activities. Book pond dipping Pond dipping is free and is available April to September during weekends and school holidays, 1.30pm-3pm. Gently turn the net inside out into the tray. Once everything has settled, you should be able to view a fascinating selection of pond-dwelling creatures. A pipette can be used to transfer individual specimens to a magnifying pot for a closer look. With an aluminium telescopic handle and knotless fine mesh net bag, this pond net will not harm specimens and is guaranteed not to run if holed. Not suitable for heavy-duty use.On the day, before the students arrive, fill the observation trays with pond water to a few centimetres deep, and spread them out around your pond, at least 3 metres away from the water’s edge. We have four beautifully planted raised ponds in our Pond Zone where you get the chance to dip for nymphs, water boatmen and water fleas using equipment provided at timed sessions. If you are taking children pond dipping then make sure that they are always kneeling or lying flat on their stomachs when reaching into the water with a net. Use a net to dip into the pond. Sweeping in a figure of eight will ensure that you retain the catch. Areas around the edge of the pond, especially near vegetation, tend to be the most productive. Take care not to scoop up mud from the bottom of the pond, as this will clog up your net and make it difficult to see what you have caught.