No. 37 Explore the wonders of a rock pool

A boy exploring a rock pool on the rugged beach at Northumberland Coast, Northumberland — A boy exploring a rock pool on a rugged beach at the Northumberland coast | © National Trust Images/Chris Lacey

As the tide goes out, the secrets of the sea are revealed in the rock pools left behind. Head to the beach to discover what lurks in these tiny pockets of ocean life. Our pictures will help you identify the creatures you find.

When to go rock-pooling

You can go rock-pooling at any time of year but the best time to go is from late spring to early autumn. This is when the weather is kindest.

It’s best to go on a day when it’s dry and calm, so the surface of the rock pools are still and it’s easier to see what’s beneath. It can get chilly too, so take a warm jumper or a coat. A small first aid kit is also a good idea, to deal with cuts and scrapes.

What will you spot?

The rock pools closest to the water will be alive with creatures, like fish, crabs and interesting plant life. Peer closely into the water. You might find your own reflection looking back at first, so you’ll have to crouch down close and stay still for a little while. Can you see anything darting about near the top? Or is there something moving slowly at the bottom? How many different colours can you spot?

Rocks can be a great hiding place for beach-loving creatures. Can you spot anything living above and around your pool? How do the rocks feel? Can you find any shells, fossils or cracks? Peek inside crevices and you might discover something looking right back at you.

What to spot in a rock pool

Blenny

Blenny fish are bottom dwellers with large eyes and a long fin along their backs called a dorsal fin. They live in shallow water but can also breathe out of water, so can wait in damp spots for the next tide to come in.

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Remember your bucket

It’s a good idea to take a bucket or a tub so you can take a closer look at what you find. Put your bucket slowly into the water and see what swims inside. Or you could push it gently through the water to scoop up a critter. Is there anything surprising in your bucket? Make a quick sketch, take a photo or write down your findings in a nature diary.

Many rock pool creatures are small and delicate, so it’s best to avoid using a net in case they become tangled and hurt. Search for some seaweed or other plant life with your hands. Can you describe its texture or smell? It’s important to pop your creatures back where they came from after a short time, so they can carry on with their day.

Rock-pooling safety tips

Make sure you check with an adult before you set off and wear shoes with a good grip. Old trainers, wellies or wetsuit boots with a thick sole are ideal. Flip-flops might make you stumble. Remember that wet seaweed can be very slippery. Move slowly and carefully.

Watch for the waves

It’s important to check the tide times for your chosen beach – you don’t want to be caught out by the sea coming in. The best time to set out is before low tide: this is when you’re likely to find lots of rock pools and you'll have the most time to explore.

Discover daily tide times for your location from websites such as Tide Times and BBC Weather.