This practical pocket guide, published in association with the Wildlife Trusts, includes more than 190 species of animal and plant that inhabit still-water bodies such as ponds, pools and small lakes in northern Europe. Each species account includes accurate artworks and concise descriptions outlining essential details such as size, habitat, ecology and distribution in Britain and the near Continent. A vast number of species occurs in these habitats, so the guide selectively pictures and describes a good range of fauna and flora that are most likely to be found and identified. Among the fascinating animals featured are freshwater sponges, hydras, water bears, worms, leeches, water snails, dragonflies and damselflies, frogs and toads, bats, fish, birds, and iconic mammals such as the Water Vole and European Otter. The easy-to-follow layouts and illustrations aid quick and precise identification, making the book an indispensable reference in the field as well as in the home and garden.

IntroductionNatural WetlandsArtificial PondsThreats to Ponds TodayGarden PondsPond WildlifeMarginal PlantsWater PlantsRushesGrassesMossesTreesSpongesHydrasWormsWater BearsLeechesMolluscsCrustaceansInsectsArachnidsFishAmphibiansReptilesBirdsMammals