A bit more active and engaging than the other ‘spotting’ hobbies, pond dipping is a great hobby for children. You just need a few key pieces of equipment (net, tray, magnifying glass, a pond life ID guide, pen, paper, towel; and a pond! )
Pros:
- Gets you out into nature
- Encourages an interest in wildlife
- Can be arranged in most wildlife reserves
- Good online resources
- It can take up as much or as little time as you want
- Varies season to season
- More engaging for children than other ‘spotting’ hobbies
Cons:
- Requires a bit of patience
- Learning all the insect species can take a long time
- You might fall into the pond
- Beware some predators like dragonfly nymphs that may eat the rest of the animals in your tray
- Living near a pond or a nature reserve makes the hobby easier
Want to try pond dipping? Find your local nature reserve here: https://www.rspb.org.uk/fun-and-learning/for-families/family-wild-challenge/activities/pond-dipping/
Hobby Bible 