Six Simple Ways To Protect Your Pond And The Wildlife That Depends On It

As the UK swelters under soaring temperatures, ecologists are warning that many garden ponds face the risk of drying out unless homeowners take immediate action. 

Experts at Arbtech say reduced water levels can have devastating consequences for amphibian life cycles and other species that rely on them as an essential water source.

Ponds are vital for biodiversity – even small garden ponds – and play a critical part in ensuring the survival of amphibians, invertebrates, and even small mammals. But in the past 50 years, one third of all UK ponds are thought to have disappeared – having an enormous effect on wildlife.

Pond evaporation of up to two inches a week is normal in summer, but extreme heat and low rainfall can dramatically accelerate this, leaving amphibians, insects, and birds without vital breeding, foraging and drinking sites. Amphibians in particular can be seriously impacted by hot weather. Drier conditions make it harder for amphibians to find the damp, cool spots where they usually take refuge. While tadpoles may grow faster in warmer weather, rapidly drying ponds can force young frogs and toads to leave before they’re fully developed – often with fatal results.

It’s important to take steps early on, and actions like topping up water levels, providing shade, and making sure wildlife can reach the water safely, can all contribute towards protecting animals in hot, dry weather. 

Mel Reid, principal ecologist at Arbtech said: “Simple actions like topping up your pond with rainwater, adding shade, and checking water quality can all make a huge difference to pond health during hot weather. Ponds play an important role for many species – particularly amphibians – and if water levels drop too quickly, many young frogs and toads sadly won’t survive. We’re seeing more intense heatwaves each summer, and ponds are one of the first places to feel the impact, so protecting these important habitats is essential.”

Six simple ways to protect your pond during a heatwave:

Top up water levels

Use rainwater from water butts wherever possible, or if using tap water, make sure to use a dechlorinator. Avoid topping up during the hottest part of the day – early morning or evening is best, to reduce shock to wildlife.

Provide shade

Add floating plants like water lilies to reduce pond surface temperature and sunlight exposure, and plant tall marginal plants around the pond edge, such as marsh marigold, to create shade. In extreme heat, temporary shade nets or garden umbrellas also work. 

Improve oxygen levels

Your pond will need native oxygenating plants to maintain a healthy ecosystem. These are completely, or partially submerged, and produce oxygen during daylight hours. A solar-powered aerator can also help in severe heat. 

Avoid disturbing the pond

Ponds rarely need a complete clear-out, and too much intervention can deter wildlife and upset the pond’s natural balance. Any pond maintenance that requires removing vegetation should be limited to winter months if possible, to prevent disturbance to wildlife. If there’s excess plant growth this should be cut back carefully, and while floating plants provide shade, aim to keep about 50 percent of the surface free from vegetation. Avoid removing algae completely – a bit of algae is natural and fine. 

Create safe access for wildlife 

Add a gently sloped bank, stones, or rocks so animals can either access the water safely or escape if needed. For species that can’t access the pond easily, place shallow water dishes nearby so they have a water source during hot weather. 

Monitor water quality

Keep an eye on your pond’s health – especially during heatwaves. Signs like cloudy water, foul smells, or even sluggish tadpoles can all indicate poor water quality or low oxygen. Spotting the issue early means you can take action before wildlife is put at risk.