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The primary objective of this paper is to study the influence of orifices diameter on an ecological water intake by using experimental modelling techniques. The tests have been performed on a small scale model integrated in a dedicated test stand. Experimental modelling of the water intake has enabled the characterization of specific hydraulic parameters, as well as estimations of intake capacity. A small scale model was developed starting from a simplified version of a sand-less ecological intake. Thus, it was possible to determine the mean water velocities from the main channel and the captured flow when testing perforated surfaces with different orifice diameters. The conclusions resulting from experiments are relevant for establishing the main design criteria of such intakes, their limitations and the factors determining their optimal operation. The carried out tests have been aimed at studying the behaviour of an environmental friendly intake in certain operation conditions. The scale model was designed to meet a certain flexibility, which enables testing with variable slope angle, embankment position and different orifice size. The obtained values related to the experimental model can be extrapolated to the prototype by using Froude similarity condition. Therefore, the results for the experimental model can be extended and used for other water works with similar site-specific design data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]