How to make a wildlife pond – step-by-step guide

A wildlife pond is a fantastic way to boost biodiversity in your garden. Frogs, dragonflies, birds, and many other animals benefit from a natural water source – and you get to enjoy the lively activity around it. A wildlife-friendly pond is not only great for nature but also for your own relaxation.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating a wildlife pond in your garden.

Two goldfinches at a pond. One of them is drinking and you can see leaves floating on the water.

1. Choosing the Right Location

Best spot for a pond:

  • Partial sun to full sun: At least 4–6 hours of sunlight per day, but not in direct sunlight all day
  • Sheltered from strong winds: This helps reduce water evaporation
  • Not directly under trees: Falling leaves can pollute the water

Tip: Pick a quiet corner of your garden so that wildlife can settle undisturbed.

2. Planning the pond size and depth

A wildlife pond doesn’t have to be huge, but the bigger, the better for biodiversity!

Recommended size:

  • Small gardens: At least 1.5 x 1.5 meters
  • Deepest area: At least 60 cm deep to prevent complete freezing in winter

Why different depths?

  • Shallow areas (10–30 cm) for insects, birds, and amphibians
  • Deeper zones (60+ cm) as a refuge for overwintering creatures

Tip: A gently sloping edge helps animals enter and exit the pond safely.

A wet blue tit in a pond

3. Digging and sealing the pond

Excavation:

  • Mark the pond shape with a rope or sand
  • Dig out the different pond zones (shallow & deep)
  • Remove sharp stones and roots to prevent liner damage

Lining the pond:

  • Pond liner (EPDM or PVC, at least 1 mm thick)
  • Alternative: Clay or natural loam as an eco-friendly sealant

Tip: Add a layer of sand or pond underlay beneath the liner for protection.

A pond is being prepared with pond liner and some stones to fixate it.

4. Filling the pond with water

Important:

  • Rainwater is best, as it is softer and has fewer nutrients than tap water
  • If using tap water, let it sit for a few days to allow chlorine to evaporate
Putting plants into a pond

Tip: Fill the pond slowly so the liner settles properly.

5. Creating a natural pond edge

A well-designed pond edge makes it a true wildlife haven.

Best pond plants:

  • Marsh marigold (Caltha palustris)
  • Water mint (Mentha aquatica)
  • Reeds and cattails (for larger ponds)

Shallow zones & escape routes:

  • Add logs and rocks as perching spots for birds and insects
  • Use gravel or plants to create a gradual transition into the water

Tip: Avoid plastic or concrete edges – they make it harder for wildlife to access the pond.

6. What wildlife will your pond attract?

Amphibians: Frogs, newts, and toads will use the pond for breeding.
Insects: Dragonflies, water beetles, and pond skaters thrive in shallow areas.
Birds: Blackbirds and finches will drink and bathe in the pond.
Pollinators: Bees and butterflies will use the pond edge as a watering station.

Tip: Be patient! Wildlife will find your pond naturally over time.

A toad in a pond in clear water

7. Maintaining your wildlife pond

Less is more! A wildlife pond requires very little maintenance:

  • Remove excess leaves in autumn to prevent too much sludge buildup
  • Avoid adding tap water if possible
  • Control algae growth by choosing low-nutrient plants

 

Avoid:

  • Chemicals or adding fish – they disrupt the natural balance
  • Constantly stirring or over-cleaning – the pond regulates itself
A robin about to take a bath in shallow water.

Key takeaways:

✔ Location: Partial sun, sheltered, not under trees
✔ Size: At least 1.5 x 1.5 meters with different depths
✔ Lining: Pond liner or natural clay as an eco-friendly alternative
✔ Natural edges with plants, rocks, and gentle slopes
✔ Be patient – wildlife will arrive on its own
✔ Low maintenance: No chemicals, minimal human intervention

A wildlife pond transforms your garden into a haven for animals – and offers you a peaceful nature retreat. Enjoy creating your pond!

Start with Plants Start with Plants