Tide Pools

Tide pools are formed when the tide water recedes from the shore. Cory the Clown visits one and discovers the life in the pool.

If you are near the shore, check out a tide pool. Go to the beach when the tide is low. A minus tide is best. Usually, the tide is lowest when there is a full moon or a new moon. Go with an adult and wear old tennis sneakers with good treads to protect your feet.

Walk carefully between rocks in the shallow water and look for sea life, barnacles, muscles, crabs, seaweed, fish, and more.

Notice how the animals eat and how they behave. Do they swim or are they stuck to the rocks? How many types of plant life can you find?

Stay away from the waves and don't turn your back on the ocean. Occasionally, a large wave can come close even if the tide is out.

Only look. Don't touch. Tide pools are protected, and you don't want to disturb the animals. Leave everything you see. Even a shell can make a great home for a hermit crab.