Pond Habitat

Shanti’s mom tells them that a pond is a small body of fresh water with land all around it. Ponds get their water from the rain, and it is a habitat or home for many plants and animals. Shanti and Xavier decide to take a closer look.

Look! There are some turtles sunning themselves on a log.

What’s that sound?

It’s frogs croaking. When they make those sounds, they are singing. Xavier sees a frog by the edge of the water. Look at its bumpy skin and big eyes.

Frogs have strong legs for jumping and swimming too.

Shanti sees many ducks swimming with their new ducklings. But what she really wants to see is an otter.

Otters make their homes by digging holes in the mud near the pond. These holes are called burrows. Otters are curious just like Shanti and love to play and swim in the water. Maybe she’ll be lucky and see one today.

What’s that?

Xavier sees ripples on the water. They are small fish swimming around the pond. And tadpoles too.

In a couple of weeks, the tadpoles will grow into adult frogs.

Lots of plants grow around the pond too. Many types of long grasses grow on the banks, and water lilies grow in the water. They provide food and protection for the animals that live here.

Some birds build their nests in the plants surrounding a pond. The plants help their eggs stay well hidden.

It’s been a fun day at the pond, but it’s time for Shanti and Xavier to go home. Shanti takes one last look at the pond hoping to see her favorite animal. Wait, could it be?

It is! An otter is poking its head out from the water. What a lucky day!