Seven derelict dew ponds have been lovingly restored and are now thriving with new life, thanks to funding from the South Downs National Park Trust. After years of stagnation and dwindling water levels due to climate change, the dew ponds across Sussex are once again providing a haven for a range of creatures including dragonflies, toads, frogs, pond skaters and yellowhammers. An eighth pond at Magdalen Hill Down in Winchester was also restored as part of the project which cost more than £90,000.
Frogs are enjoying the restored dew ponds (Image: D Middleton) Work is due to start soon on restoring a further two ponds, near Emsworth, that will help support populations of white turtle dove. The turnaround has been made possible by the “Pounds for Ponds” initiative launched a year ago which is looking to restore around 100 dew ponds across the South Downs National Park. Dew ponds are synonymous with the chalk grassland of the South Downs, historically being dug by farmers as a watering hole for livestock and some dating back several hundred years.
However, over many decades and due to changes in farming practices, dozens of these wildlife oases have fallen into disrepair or been lost completely. Climate change, with warmer, drier summers mean these bodies of water are more important than ever in providing refuge and drinking water for animals. READ MORE: Sussex national park launches green investment scheme to boost biodiversity Yellowhammers are loving the restored habitat .
