Description
Discover the magic of ponds and discover the hidden wonders beneath the water’s surface!
The Big Pond Dip – Havannah Nature Reserve
Discover the hidden wonders beneath the water’s surface! Join us for a hands-on, pond dipping session at the beautiful Havannah Nature Reserve.
You'll learn how to:
- Identify freshwater invertebrates
- Use simple survey techniques
- Score the health of a pond based on the creatures you find
This interactive session is perfect for anyone interested in wildlife, citizen science, or simply getting outdoors. By the end, you’ll be ready to carry out your own Big Pond Dip surveys at home or in your local area, and feed into the wider 'pondscape' of the Ouse Burn catchment!
Learn more about the Big Pond Dip and download free survey materials here:🔗 https://freshwaterhabitats.org.uk/advice-resources/survey-methods-hub/big-pond-dip
Bring your curiosity – we’ll provide the nets!
Essential Information
Event lead: Alex Kennair
Event length: 1 session, Sunday 28 June 10am-11.30am (approx)
Meet at: Woolsington Parish Pond (Lily Pond), Woolsington, Newcastle Upon Tyne, NZ 19165 69726, W3W: ///riots.fishery.runner.
Event cost: £5
Please plan your route beforehand as there is no on site parking. Map with meeting point and details for nearby parking included below.
Photos will be taken at this event to use on social media and in NHSN publicity material. If you would prefer not to be photographed please let us know at the start of the event.
Accessibility
Toilet facilities are not available and there is no cafe on site.
The walk is approximately 1.5 miles along a trail. Please wear sturdy footwear as some of the paths can be uneven in places and can get muddy in places. This site is not generally regarded as wheelchair accessible.
Please email Ellie at UrbanNaturalist@newcastle.ac.uk for any accessibility questions.
About the Ouse Burn Way
Made possible by the Reece Foundation, The Ouse Burn Way offers events that encourage people of all ages to connect with nature. From exploring local wildlife to discovering the hidden gems in your community, these activities are a great way to experience the natural world in Newcastle and North Tyneside. What will you spot in your own neighbourhood? Come along and join us for some outdoor fun, and start noticing the wildlife around you. For more information about the project, please click here.
How to get there
Map to show how to get to meeting point (red x) below. Best options for parking are Cowell's Garden Centre (B on map, w3w//hops.agreed.neck) or layby on A696 (D on map, w3w//engage.pages.rival - please note this layby has limited parking).
Please leave extra time!