How to Protect Pond Fish From Predators

Water gardening has become very popular in the last few years but the thought of trying to learn how to protect your pond fish from predators may lure them away from building a pond. Depending on where you live pond predators may be feasting down on your goldfish, koi or any other type of fish you have in your pond. Pond predators such as the blue heron, kingfishers, racoons, eagles and other types of birds pose threats to your fish. The good news is that there are ways you can protect your pond fish from predators and I'm going to show you how.

Heron Decoys

Heron decoys are an excellent way to protect your pond fish. You see herons are territorial and if they see another heron in the area they consider that competition and would rather go some where else where he will have better picking. Heron decoys will help stop your fish from being eaten.

Scarecrow Sprinkler Systems

These work very well and are efficient. These scarecrow sprinkler systems has a built in motion detector and when something comes close it sprays a blast of water scaring them off. This not only works well for the blue heron but also effective against racoons, cats and other wildlife.

Alligator decoys

This is relatively new on the market and very effective against pond predators. The alligator is the predator towards herons, birds and other wildlife. When animals approach and see the alligator it signals there defence mechanism warning them it's not safe. This will help protect your fish very well.

Pond netting

Pond netting can be used to keep predators away and protect your fish but it takes away the natural look to a pond. Pond netting does work but looks rather unsightly and kind of takes away the beauty of a pond. Not only does it help protect your fish from predators it also helps keep leaves and other debris from entering your pond that could foul your water. Pond netting has two benefits but taking away from the look of your garden pond may keep pond owners from using this method.

Pond design

Protecting your pond fish from predators should actually be thought of even before digging a pond. Try and make the pond 3-4 feet deep giving your fish more room to go with lots of pond plants such as water lilies to give protection. Also make caves for your fish so when scared they will have a place to go and hide and be safe. You can also add drainage pipes or tunnels in your pond that will add much more protection for your fish.

Protecting your pond fish should should be thought of and done right at the early stages of building a pond. Careful planning and proper steps can ensure your fish are safe from wildlife. I've heard from many people who have lost all there pond fish. Don't make your pond the next dining place for pond predators.

Jamie Boyle is an online author who writes and maintains his Goldfish Care Information (http://www.GoldfishCareInformation.com) blog to help people answer questions involving goldfish. If you need more information on goldfish and want to know how to treat various goldfish diseases please visit http://www.GoldfishCareInformation.com