Malvern Hills Trust have recently given a breath of new life to two ponds on Malvern Common. These beautiful ponds are a key feature of the landscape and a habitat for many species but were being lost as the waterbodies gradually filled in.
Over time ponds begin to naturally fill in which benefits some transition species but others are lost as the amount and depth of water decreases. In some cases, the water is lost altogether. Undertaking the pond restoration work at Malvern Common will benefit Stickleback fish, newts and Ramshorns snails which require a deeper body of water as well as providing an attractive and thriving habitat for local people to enjoy.
Sadly, there has been a huge loss in the number and the condition of freshwater habitats across the UK. The Freshwater Habitats Trust reports that 92% of ponds in England and Wales are biologically degraded so the Trust's work to preserve these waterbodies is vitally important to improve the national picture of freshwater habitats.
The Trust cares for over 40 ponds ranging from mill ponds to stock ponds in a variety of different conditions, sizes and depths. Conditions of ponds are monitored and conservation works to improve habitats are planned following advice from wildlife experts.
