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Species

Common pond skater

The common pond skater can be seen 'skating' over the surface of ponds, lakes, ditches and slow-moving rivers. It is predatory, feeding on small insects by detecting vibrations in the…

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40 species to spot

Download and print our special 40th Anniversary Spotter Sheet and see what you can find!

From fabulous fungi to marvellous mammals, Birmingham and the Black Country is home to thousands of fantastic flora and fauna - we've put 40 of our favourites on this spotter for you to find.

 Find out more about these amazing local species below.
Species

Greater pond sedge

A tussocky sedge, Greater pond sedge has stout, upright flower spikes, strap-like leaves and triangular stems. It prefers lowland wetland habitats on heavy soils.

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How to build a pond

A wildlife pond is one of the single best features for attracting new wildlife to the garden.

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How to create a mini pond

Even a small pond can be home to an interesting range of wildlife, including damsel and dragonflies, frogs and newts. Any pond can become a feeding ground for birds, hedgehogs and bats – the best…

Species

Water spider

There are several species of spider that live in our wetlands, but the water spider is the only one that spends its life under the water. In its pond habitats, it looks silvery because of the air…

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Species

Discover more about our amazing wildlife in the UK! Learn more about the plants and animals on your doorstep.

Species

Common skate

Despite its name, the "common" skate is not so common anymore. In fact, they are Critically Endangered.

Species

Water figwort

Water figwort is a tall plant of riverbanks, pond margins, damp meadows and wet woodlands. Its maroon flowers are pollinated by the Common wasp.

Species

Sea slater

These little critters are related to the woodlice you find in your garden and play a very important role on rocky shores.