Wetlands. Ponds. and Pools

Watering areas will enhance wildlife visitation to any size site. They may range from small bird baths, submerged basins and large tanks associated with feeding stations, to a pond or wetland on a large site. In addition to providing drinking water, a large tank is sufficient for dragonflies and amphibians. Aquatic sites may be used by waterfowl and shorebirds. Waterfowl nesting structures and wood duck nesting boxes can be installed in large sites.

Activities for artificial ponds may include introductions of frogs, salamanders, insect larvae, plants, or fish. Given the opportunity, students can be relied upon to collect many animals for the pond themselves. Amphibian and insect metamorphosis may be observed from stocked tadpoles and dragonfly larvae. If the water source is small, heaters are available commercially which keep water open year round.

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