In all likelihood, your fish pond will attract much more than just fish. Since you are creating a thriving ecosystem, many other creatures will be curious about your fish pond and may even take up residence. Here are some of the most popular water gardening animals you can expect to come and visit your new water feature.
Frogs
The presence of frogs adds dimension and personality to your pond. While some pond keepers choose to actively introduce frogs or tadpoles, frogs always seem to find ponds on their own as well. Frogs provide more than just soothing summer voices to your fish ponds. In fact, frogs add to the diversity of species that ponds support along with your fish, plants, insects, and other wildlife by helping to create a more complete ecosystem. Despite their survival as a species, global populations of frogs are declining at an alarming rate due to factors like habitat loss and pesticide use. Your pond could play an important role in the conservation of local frog populations.
Turtles
Fish ponds meet most of a turtle’s essential needs. These ponds typically provide plenty of nourishment and shelter, which makes them prime habitats for these creatures. Turtles are generally found along the edge of your pond and on top of rocks, as these provide a quick escape from predators. A turtle’s diet is comprised mostly of insects, aquatic vegetation, and deceased marine animals. In order to keep your turtles thriving, ensure that they have access to a log, plank, or rock so your turtles can climb out of the water to bask in the sun. Your basking area should get several hours of sunlight and be partially submerged so that your turtles can easily climb out of the water. It is also worth noting that turtles have a tendency to claw or sometimes even bite through pond liner, so a fish pond featuring turtles will likely require more maintenance than one without.
Insects
Many insects like damselflies, dragonflies, and water striders are attracted to a wildlife pond, particularly if you put a large number of flowering plants in or near the water feature. Insects are actually beneficial to the ecosystem of your pond. Attracting a wide variety of bugs to your fish pond means that there will be adequate food for your fish, birds, and amphibians alike.
Aquatic insects play a critical role in a balanced water ecosystem. The insects that are present can show you a great deal about your pond and its health. For instance, dragonflies are sensitive to pollution and tend to be found in areas with good water quality as a result. Likewise, mosquitoes and leeches are pollution-tolerant. If these bugs abound, your pond may require additional care.
