FAQs about spawn and tadpoles: tadpoles in autumn

Tadpoles may develop slowly if conditions aren't quite right (Diane Mesher)

WILDLIFE INFORMATION SERVICE

Frequently Asked Questions about... spawn and tadpoles:

I still have tadpoles late in the the year (into autumn), is this normal?

Tadpoles / larvae usually develop into young amphibians and leave the pond during the summer months, but occasionally you might still see them in the pond throughout autumn and winter. These 'overwintering' tadpoles complete their development the following spring. There could be several reasons for this slow development:

The pond may be so crowded that the tadpoles are short of food.

The pond may be too cold, due to a shaded location or steep-sided construction.

Crowding is likely to resolve itself over time. If the pond is shaded, consider cutting back some of the overhanging vegetation to increase the amount of light and warmth reaching the surface of the water.

At this stage, do not attempt to help these 'slow-growers' by providing extra food or taking them out of the pond - you could end up with them completing their development in the middle of winter when there is no food around to support them. They will be fine in the pond until next spring.

More information:

What is the best pond design for amphibians? >>>

How do I protect the creatures living in my pond if the water freezes? >>>

Should I feed the tadpoles in my pond? >>>