Why ponds are biodiversity powerhouses, and how you can help
At The Conservation Volunteers (TCV), we have a shared vision of better nature for all. That’s why we’re working to protect and restore green spaces, empower people like you to take action for wildlife, and improve wellbeing through nature connection. And when it comes to achieving all three, ponds are one of the most powerful tools we have.
Whether you’re a seasoned conservationist or just beginning your journey, creating or caring for a pond, even a small one, is a powerful way to make a difference. Every pond you build or protect becomes a thriving habitat, helping wildlife flourish and contributing to a healthier, more biodiverse world. Your local action matters because when you support nature on your doorstep, you’re strengthening the bigger picture for biodiversity across the UK.
Watch how to build a wildlife pond
Why are ponds so important?
Ponds are biodiversity hotspots. Despite their small size, they support a vast array of life – from amphibians and aquatic insects to birds and mammals. In fact, research shows that ponds can support more species than rivers or lakes, especially when they’re clean, unpolluted and rich in native plants.
“The greater the biodiversity, the more secure will be all life on Earth.”
Sir David Attenborough CBE, TCV Vice President
Ponds and the web of life: A scientific look
Every pond is a living network, a place where food chains and food webs flourish. At the base of the chain are aquatic plants, algae, and decaying plant matter, which feed herbivorous invertebrates like water snails, pond skaters and larval forms like mayfly and damselfly nymphs. These, in turn, become food for predators such as dragonfly larvae, frogs, toads and newts.
Birds like kingfishers and grey herons rely on ponds to hunt small fish and amphibians. Bats feed on the insects that emerge from pond surfaces at dusk. Other mammals like hedgehogs and foxes also benefit, using ponds as watering holes and hunting grounds.
Native plants such as yellow flag iris, water mint, and marsh marigold provide shelter, oxygen, and breeding grounds for countless species. And because ponds are often isolated, they can support rare or specialist species that struggle to survive elsewhere.
“I wanted to learn more and was encouraged to go on some local ID courses. Everything I learned fed back into my volunteering, allowing me to get more involved with wildlife surveys, bug-hunts, and pond dipping events.”
Thomas, TCV Volunteer
Ponds and people: A natural connection
Creating or caring for a pond is more than just a conservation task – it’s a way to connect with nature, learn new skills, and improve your wellbeing. TCV volunteers often say that pond work is one of the most rewarding activities they do.
“I cleared ponds of invasive species, managed gorse and coppiced trees… At the end of each day I felt tired and refreshed: just what I needed.”
Paul, TCV Volunteer
Whether you’re digging a new pond, planting native species, or simply observing the wildlife that arrives, you’re helping to restore nature and build community.
Pond myths busted
Let’s clear up a few common misconceptions:
- “Ponds are only for large gardens.”
False – even a washing-up bowl or old sink can support wildlife. - “You need to add fish.”
False – fish often reduce biodiversity by eating invertebrates and amphibian eggs. - “Ponds take too much maintenance.”
False – wildlife ponds thrive with minimal intervention, especially when planted with native species.
How ponds support TCV’s strategy
Pond projects are a perfect example of how TCV delivers on its mission to connect people together to protect and restore nature:
- Protecting and restoring nature
We create and restore ponds to boost biodiversity and improve green spaces for people and wildlife. - Empowering people to take action
We support volunteers, community groups and schools to build and maintain ponds, offering training and resources to make it happen. - Improving wellbeing through nature connection
Pond creation is hands-on, rewarding work that connects people with nature and each other.
TCV’s freshwater education and management
As part of our commitment to connecting people with nature, TCV runs freshwater environmental education sessions and pond maintenance sessions across the UK.
These hands-on experiences help people of all ages discover the rich biodiversity found in pond habitats, from aquatic plants and invertebrates to amphibians and birds.
Through activities like pond dipping, species identification, and water quality testing, participants gain a deeper understanding of how ponds support complex ecosystems and why they’re vital for conservation. These sessions not only build ecological knowledge but also inspire action to protect and restore freshwater habitats.
“Regarding nature and environment, I have learned so much especially about native plants, invertebrates, pond lives, and ecosystems.”
Cassandra, TCV Volunteer Officer
Get involved
Want to help nature thrive in your local area? Join a TCV pond project or start your own with support from our resources.
Find TCV activities near you: www.tcv.org.uk/find-tcv
Download our wildlife gardening guide: Gardening for Wildlife PDF
Further reading & resources
These trusted organisations also offer excellent advice and inspiration for pond creation and conservation:
Final thoughts
Ponds are proof that small actions can have a big impact. They bring nature to our doorsteps, support threatened species and increase biodiversity, and offer a space for people to connect, learn and grow.
Whether you’re building a pond from scratch, raising funds for one, or helping to maintain one, we thank you. TCV’s pond projects are made possible thanks to the dedication of our volunteers, community groups, and funding partners who share our vision for better nature for all.
Let’s crack on and muck in – for better nature, empowered people, and thriving communities!
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TCV is active across most of the UK: Click here to find your nearest office or activity!
