
How to make a wildlife pond
Create safe shallow margins, varied planting and a dependable escape route in a pond that fits your garden.

Choose a project that fits your space and build practical habitat for feeding, drinking, shelter and safe movement.
You do not need a landscape makeover. Add water, flowers, shelter or access first, then let the garden grow into a connected patchwork over time.
Search by species, habitat, difficulty or the time you have available.

Create safe shallow margins, varied planting and a dependable escape route in a pond that fits your garden.

Convert a sunny piece of lawn or a container into a longer-lasting source of pollen and nectar.

Create a low-maintenance hiding, feeding and overwintering space from natural materials.

Choose flowers that keep nectar and pollen available from spring into autumn, whether you have a border, a few pots or a window box.

Turn cut branches, bark and fallen leaves into a cool, sheltered refuge for beetles, spiders, amphibians and more.

Turn a bare balcony into a layered mini habitat with flowers, shelter, safe water and useful vertical planting.

Keep useful stems and seed heads for birds, insects and winter structure, then cut them back at the right time.

Turn fallen leaves into a sheltered feeding layer beneath shrubs instead of removing every trace of autumn.

Create a shallow, clean water source with secure landing places for bees and other small visitors.

Create longer grass, flowering lawn plants and clear paths without making the whole garden difficult to use.

Set up a secure water butt and use stored rain where it makes the greatest difference in your garden.

Cover bare soil with the right material to slow moisture loss, protect soil life and reduce repeated watering.

Link water, planting, shelter and boundary access so wildlife can move without crossing large exposed gaps.

Combine shelter, flowers, berries and connected cover in one valuable garden feature.

Use prevention, healthy soil and natural predators to manage common garden problems.

Create a safe 13 cm opening and reconnect neighbouring gardens for hedgehogs moving after dark.