It’s Time to Rock the Rockpools

As the temperatures rise and the days grow longer, rockpool animals start to make a comeback just as many of their land-based counterparts do too.

Spring is a great time of year to head out to your local rocky beach to spot tiny juvenile starfish and flatfish, and look out for the eggs of fish, snails and sea slugs in the rockpools.

We are excited to have our new Rocky Shore Explorer field guide available to download so you can take it out and about with you when rockpooling to help you identify the common algae and animals you are likely to see along our rocky shores. The guide was supported by Friends of Macduff Marine Aquarium, thanks to a grant from the Coastal Communities and Challenge Fund.

Top Tips for Rockpooling

Always check the tide and weather conditions before you head to the beach. Rockpooling is best enjoyed with a friend on a falling low tide.

Ensure you have suitable footwear and tread carefully.

Dress for the weather and plan ahead with extra layers and spare clothing in case the day changes suddenly; we all know we can have four seasons in one day most any time of the year!

Try to keep your shadow behind you so that it doesn't scare animals away before you get there.

As you explore Follow the Sea Shore Code:

Respect Marine Life

• Handle with Care: Gently handle creatures with wet hands and return them to where you found them.

• Watch Your Step: Avoid stepping on marine life by walking on bare rocks or sand.

• If looking under rocks, turn the rocks gently and return them to their original positions.

Maintain Natural Habitats

• Return Residents: Ensure all creatures are safely returned to their original homes after observation.

• Preserve the Environment: Leave the beach clean by taking your litter and any other rubbish you find with you.

Stay Safe, Move Safely

• Use caution on slippery rocks and when handling animals.

• Monitor the Tide: Keep an eye on the tide to avoid getting stranded or swept away.

• Don’t turn your back on the sea; look out for rogue waves. Look out for our guided Rockpool Rambles sessions this summer at Banff links beach