Camponds

A campond is a type of artificial pond designed to attract and support a diverse range of wildlife, particularly amphibians such as frogs and newts. These ponds are typically shallow and can be constructed in gardens, parks, or larger ecological restoration projects. Key features of a campond often include gently sloping sides to allow easy access for wildlife and a variety of aquatic and marginal vegetation to provide habitat and food sources. The inclusion of submerged plants helps to oxygenate the water, while emergent plants offer shelter and breeding grounds.

The design of a campond aims to mimic natural pond environments. This can involve using natural materials like mud and leaf litter to create a substrate that encourages invertebrate colonization, which in turn supports amphibian populations. Sunlight is also an important consideration, as a balance of sun and shade is beneficial for both plant growth and the thermoregulation needs of amphibians. Camponds are generally constructed without fish, as fish can prey on amphibian eggs and larvae, thereby reducing their success. The focus is on creating a healthy ecosystem that can sustain a breeding population of amphibians. They are a popular feature for wildlife enthusiasts and conservationists looking to enhance local biodiversity.