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Below you will find everything you will need to get started on your Big Rockpool Ramble: from where to go, to spotter sheets - we've got you covered.
You will also shortly receive an email (check your junk folder if its not in your inbox) with links to this page - in case you need to navigate away.
Before scrolling down, please do consider making a donation (or why not buy an exclusive Big Rockpool Ramble t-shirt?) - they directly support our marine conservation work
The Big Rockpool Ramble Guide & Downloads are FREE!
Or why not purchase a Big Rockpool Ramble t-shirt and help local marine conservation!
Limited availability & Pre-Order only - Ordering closes 15th July and all orders will be fulfilled after that date. This ensures that as much of your donation as possible goes to conservation work and not on administration!. Soft-style, ring spun 100% cotton t-shirts for men, women and children - variety of sizes available
Rockpool ramble (c) Cristina EVS
Big Rockpool Ramble Guide
Where to go
Here are some ideas for locations you can ramble in, but any rocky shoreline will do!
We encourage you to ramble close to where you live and to follow current Covid-19 guidelines when out and about.
Where to Look
The ideal time for a rockpool ramble is when the tide is out. The pools closest to the water’s edge are usually the best, you will mostly find the animals hiding under stones.
Take care not to squash any animals when putting stones and boulders back, as you found them. Also, make sure you put them back facing the same way, as the wildlife living on the sunny side is different than the ones under the rock!
When to look
The best time for a rockpool ramble is one hour before the low tide
Always check the time of tides and know when the tide is about to turn. Free monthly tide times for various locations are available at
Staying safe on your Big Rockpool Ramble
Please adhere to current Covid-19 guidelines for activity outdoors.
What to look out for
Rockpools are teeming with life! Here are your handy guides to some of the wildlife you might encounter.
Recording what you see
Your photos will contribute to better understanding of local biodiversity and will ultimately lead to more vital conservation work. Once you have found your subject, here are some tips on taking a picture. Taking a good photo is essential for verifying the identification!
Send us your finds!
Once you've taken part, make sure you send us pictures of the rock pool wildlife you have found. Please note: We are unable to contact everyone individually about your submissions (e.g. if you are unable to identify a species). However, once all records have been reviewed towards the end of August, we will send a complete list to everyone who sent us records, with your name & ID'd submissions.
As a thank you for these vital records, the person who SUBMITS THE MOST RECORDS will WIN a fantastic prize - a one year Family Membership* with Ulster Wildlife! Membership allows you to discover, enjoy and protect the wildlife and wild places we all treasure, here in Northern Ireland. You will receive a welcome pack and regular magazines, have access to our member events and there is Wildlife Watch for the children! Find out more about membership here.
The winner of the 'most records competition' will be contacted towards the end of August when we have compiled all records - good luck!
* T&C's apply - 1 year family membership for 2 adults & up to 4 children living at the same address; we will contact the winner to request details for setting up the membership.
